carnival cruise activities for adults

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Carnival's HUB App offers an at-a-glance overview of the day’s events, including activity and entertainment options, dining choices, children’s programming and more.  The following entertainment and activities are offered fleet wide, unless otherwise noted. Parties  |  Full Gambling Casino |  Shows and Entertainment |  Youth Programs |  Sports |  Spa Carnival and Cloud 9 Spa |  Fun and Games with the Cruise Director and Social Staff |  Instructive Talks, Demonstrations and Classes |  Mixers and Meetings  |  Onboard Facilities Parties

• Sail Away Party : Following the Safety Briefing and as the ship sets sail, guests gather at midship Lido Deck where the cruise staff and DJ get the party started with music, dancing and drink specials.
• Captain's Welcome:  Join us for live music and a special welcome with the Captain and Senior Officers on your cruise.  This event is featured on all cruises four days and longer; on shorter cruises, guests will have the opportunity to mingle with the Senior Officers on the elegant evening.  
• VIFP Diamond and Platinum Reunion  : An exclusive party on cruises five days and longer, for Platinum and Diamond guests, featuring fun-filled activities with an interactive, casual and exclusive feel, as well complimentary drinks and appetizers.  
• Mega Deck Party : An island inspired party that celebrates the fun and spirit of RedFrog and BlueIguana - the colorful namesake characters from our poolside watering holes. This party is featured on cruises six days and longer; shorter cruises will feature the Mega Deck Party or the 80s Night Deck Party.
• 80s Night Deck Party : A high energy, fun and unique '80s themed party showcasing our exciting musical offerings. This party is featured on cruises six days and longer; shorter cruises will feature the 80s Night Deck Party or the Mega Deck Party.  
• White Hot Night Party : The fun on a Carnival cruise may start at sunrise, but that doesn’t mean it comes to an end when the sun goes down. So when packing for your cruise, bring your favorite, most fun… even quirkiest white clothing and matching accessories for an amazing night of dancing, giveaways and fun. This party is featured on select sailings. 

Full Gambling Casino

• Gaming: Blackjack , Dice/Craps, Roulette , Texas Hold ‘Em (electronic dealer), Caribbean Stud Poker, Three Card Poker and Let it Ride ,  Slots  
• Casino Tournaments : Blackjack, slots and poker tournaments for cash prizes

Shows and Entertainment

• Welcome Aboard Show
• Playlist Productions™ stage shows  
• Punchliner Comedy Club™  featuring established comedians as well as rising stars
• Karaoke  
• Live music  for dancing
• Carnival Seaside Theater  and  Dive-in Movies  (select ships)
• Big Screen Blockbusters (select ships) 
• Bingo  sessions
• First-run movies featured daily on the in-cabin TV
• ‘On Demand’ movies  (select ships)
• Behind the Fun Tour
• IMAX® Theatre  (on Carnival Horizon and Carnival Vista)
• Sky Zone® Trampoline Park at Sea (on Carnival Panorama)

Youth Programs

• Space Cruisers™
• Circle ‘C’® - exclusive program for teens, 12-14 years of age
• Teen's Party Time
• Teens' Digital Play
• Teens' Active Play  
• Seuss-A-Palooza Story Time
• Seuss-A-Palooza Parade
• Dr. Seuss® Bookville (select ships) 
• Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast  
• Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea  
• Turtles Program - for infants, 6 months to under 2 - coming soon!
• Zumbini® Program

Sports and Outdoor Fun Please note: Some facilities may not be available on every ship - check here to see what is on your cruise!

• Ping Pong (on all ships, excluding Mardi Gras)
• Volleyball  (select ships) 
• Basketball  (select ships)
• Pickle Ball (select ships) 
• Miniature Golf   (on all ships, excluding Carnival Luminosa)
• Putting Green (on Carnival Luminosa)
• Jogging Track  (select ships) 
• Ropes Course  (select ships) 
• SkyRide®  (on Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama and Carnival Vista)   
• BOLT® Ultimate Sea Coaster (on Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee and Mardi Gras)
• Pools  
• Waterworks  (select ships)
• Twister Waterslide™  (on all ships, excluding Carnival Luminosa)
• Serenity Adults Only Retreat™   
• SportSquare™  (select ships)

Spa Carnival / Cloud 9 Spa

• Cloud 9 Spa™  (select ships)
• Spa Carnival  (select ships)
• ZSpa  
• Beauty Seminars
• Hair & Beauty Salon   
• Facial Treatments  
• Medi-Spa and Acupuncture  (select ships) 
• Men’s services  
• Massage  
• Fitness Center  
• Body Conditioning, Stretch, Abs, Tai Chi, Yoga, Pilates and Cycle Class 

Fun and Games with the Cruise Director and Social Staff Please note: Games vary and are up to the discretion of the ship’s Cruise Director and Social Staff

• Family Feud™ Live (on select ships)
• Deal or No Deal  ™ (on all ships, excluding Carnival Luminosa)
• Fun Ship Family Games
• Horseracing
• Fun Squad Trivia  
• Guess That Groove
• Love & Marriage (18+)
• What's Age Got to Do With It
• Scavenger Hunt 
• Bean Bag Toss 
• Lido Deck and Pool Games 
• Who Wants to be a Millionaire? 
• Battle of the Sexes
• Ship Building Competition
• Game Show Mania 

Instructive Talks – Demonstrations - Classes

• Fun Aboard, Fun Ashore  
• Ice Carving Demonstrations 
• Dance classes : Pick up some moves and learn to dance like a professional. 
• Carnival Kitchen : (on Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee, Mardi Gras, Carnival Panorama): Guests can enjoy more than 15 onboard hands-on culinary experiences led by our talented chefs.
• Cooking Demonstration  (on select Carnival Journeys sailings): Learn to cook Steakhouse-style from our team of chefs as they demonstrate the tricks of the trade used to make those multi-course dinners that everyone loves. This is an hour-long presentation of kitchen skill and ingenuity - and taste tests are included. 
• Food and Wine Pairing: Learn how to match great wines with great food and enjoy as well; informative talk by our onboard Sommelier.
• Art Auction Program at Sea  (select ships) 
• ‘Groove for St. Jude’ : A fun dance activity held once each cruise that allows guests to make a $10 USD donation and groove to the music. Guests receive a ‘Care to Play’ tee shirt and wristband and the proceeds go directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Medical Research Hospital.
• Creativity at Sea: Complimentary, self-lead painting and craft experience (may be offered on select itineraries, scheduling permitted)
• Coloring at Sea: An opportunity for our guests to relax and unwind with this simple and fun activity (scheduling permitted).

Mixers and Meetings

• Friends of Bill W (Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting)
• Friends of Jimmy K (Narcotics Anonymous Meeting) 
• LGBTQI Mixer
• Singles Mixer (Singles, 40+ Singles)
• 18-20 Year Olds Meet and Greet
• Card Players meet and play
• Military Appreciation Gathering

Onboard Facilities

• Video Arcade   
• On Board Duty-Free Shopping   
• Library  (select ships) 

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38 Must-Do Things on a Carnival Cruise Ship

Wondering what all you can do on your Carnival cruise?

Think of a cruise and you likely envision exotic ports, hitting the beach, or splashing in the clear blue water of the Caribbean.

The truth is, however, the vast majority of your time on a cruise is actually spent on the ship . Consider that on a 7-day cruise, you might have three ports of call. Each of those port days consists of about eight hours docked. In other words, of the 160+ hours spent on a week-long cruise, only about 24 hours would be spent on shore .

That means cruise lines need to ensure there is plenty for passengers to do on their trip. Carnival is among the leading cruise lines when it comes to what you can do while you sail on your vacation.

Below we’ve rounded up nearly 40 ideas of things you can do on a Carnival cruise ship , and it’s just a start. What’s available may vary depending on which ship you sail, but overall, this is a great primer to what you can do on your vacation.

Grab a Bite From Guy’s Burger Joint

If you’re sailing on Carnival, you might have heard about Guy’s Burger Joint . It’s a venture with Guy Fieri, the famous chef and TV host. On Carnival ships there is a Guy’s (usually poolside) serving fresh burgers and fries… and it’s completely free.

Why are they such a big deal? Instead of some dried out burger sitting under a heat lamp, Guy’s offers up fresh food that’s tasty… and the price can’t be beat. Grab one, and you’re likely to get hooked immediately.

One thing to know is that the spot serves up burgers with limited hours — usually noon to 6 p.m. Also know that lines can be pretty long when it first opens up.

Start Your Morning With a Breakfast Burrito at BlueIguana

Typically on the other side of the ship’s pool deck from Guy’s Burger Joint is the BlueIguana Cantina, which serves up Mexican food. You can stop for lunch and grab tacos or a burrito that’s fresh, fast, and easy.

But many people don’t realize that the quick-eatery also serves up breakfast tacos and burritos. Stop by and get some eggs and bacon wrapped in a warm tortilla instead of munching on pancakes and cereal in the buffet.

Play in the Waterpark and Waterslides

If relaxing isn’t your thing (or more likely you have kids!), then you can spend some time checking out the waterslides and waterpark on the ship’s pool deck. What’s offered will vary depending on the ship, but the newest ships feature winding slides and water features to help cool off and have a thrill. They are designed for the kiddos, but trust us, it’s fun for adults too.

Get that Golden Tan on the Pool Deck

There’s likely no activity more popular on a cruise than working on your tan. On days at sea you’ll see seemingly everyone on the ship getting some sun. If you want to be in the middle of the action, then head to the pool area where you’ll find the most people.

Those wanting somewhere a little less busy can try the Serenity area (adults only) or try sunny spots usually found at the back of the ship. One thing — the sun is a whole lot stronger at lower latitudes. Don’t stay out without sunscreen for too long or you can quickly burn.

Watch a Movie Poolside, Under the Stars

If you’re looking for a unique way to spend an evening at sea, what about hanging out by (or in) the pool, watching a movie on the big screen? In the evenings new release movies are shown on the large video board that towers over the pool. You can hang out and relax under stars, taking in a flick in one of the most perfect settings imaginable. Hang in the pool, hot tub, or lounger and enjoy the show.

Hit the Arcade (No Quarters Required)

Each ship will have an arcade filled with all sorts of games from air hockey to racing to shoot ’em ups. Head down with the kids and play some games. You don’t need to worry about quarters. You simply slide your key card at the machine you want to play and the charge is put on your onboard account. For the best deal, wait until they offer half-priced games during the “Power Hour.”

If you have kids, they will likely spend more time here than you can imagine!

Visit the Shops for Jewelry or Souvenirs

Shopping is big business on a cruise, and Carnival is no different. There are a number of stores on ships, including places where you can get everything from a fancy watch to a beautiful bracelet to a designer handbag. Not looking for anything too expensive? There are also souvenir shops on the ship where you can find practically anything you want adorned with the ship’s picture or name.

Have a Drink and a Sing-a-Long at the Piano Bar

You may not be the karaoke type to stand in front of a big crowd and belt out a hit, but who doesn’t like singing along with a group to the classics? On many Carnival ships there is a bar/nightclub called Piano Bar 88. Have a drink of two and enjoy having some of the best music hits ever made played — and sang along to — in the company of dozens of your closest friends.

Watch the Game at SkyBox While Enjoying a Brew

The cabin television sets don’t have a lot of options when it comes to watching sports. So if you want to watch the game, then you’re going to need to visit the casino, or the SkyBox Sports Bar. SkyBox offers a sports-themed atmosphere, complete with several TV sets showing the action. You can sit, watch the game and enjoy a beer (or other libation) with other sports fans. Another popular spot to watch sports is in the ship’s casino.

Have a Fancy Cocktail from a “Mixologist” at Alchemy Bar

Any bar on the ship can get you a beer or a margarita. But what about a “spicy chipotle pineapple martini” or a “curative peach cosmopolitan”? If drinks that are a little out of the ordinary appeal to you, then the Alchemy Bar might be right up your alley. The bar is staffed by “mixologists” who put new spins on beverages. The bar is available on many ships, but be prepared to spend a little more than usual for the unique mixtures.

Try Your Luck in the Casino

We’ll be the first to say that the payouts in a cruise casino aren’t that great . If you really want the best place to play, stick to land-based casinos where you can (sometimes) find better payouts. But gambling on a cruise is still a lot of fun and offers low limits for smaller players. In addition, there are also a number of unique games in cruise casinos that you won’t find on land like “coin-pusher” machines. The casino isn’t open when in port, but once in international waters you can play.

Stock Up on Duty-Free Items

Duty-free shopping is big business on cruise ship (and in ports). The laws allow them to sell goods without taxes or duty, which means they can be cheaper than you’ll find back home. The popular items include things like alcohol, cigarettes, and jewelry/watches. Just know that there are limits on what you can bring home before you have to pay fees to the government when you disembark at the end of the trip. As well, the items you buy will be held for you until the end of the cruise. 

Get a Pizza… 24 Hours a Day

Carnival’s pizza parlor is the Pizzeria Del Capitano (known as Pizza Pirate on some ships). It serves up handmade pies that are made fresh around the clock. There are only a few types of pie served (pepperoni, margherita, cheese, and a couple more), but they are absolutely delicious. Best of all, the pizza is free. In fact, you can even have it delivered to you on some ships, although a small charge applies if you do that.

Dance Salsa at the Havana Bar

Havana Bar is one of the favorite hangouts on Carnival ships. The Cuban-themed bar has one part that is a cozy spot to share a drink while the other part features a large dance floor. In the evenings there are bands that play lively music that you can use to practice your salsa moves. It you want to have a fun Caribbean night… while sailing in the Caribbean, then it can’t be beat.

Play a Round of Putt-Putt or Ping-Pong

If you have kids… or you are just a kid at heart… one of the fun things to do on any large cruise ship is to play the games. Ships have a putt-putt mini-golf course that adults and kids will find entertaining (the wind on a ship makes it challenging). As well, ping-pong is also a favorite with the cruise lines even holding tournaments so you can challenge your fellow passengers. Other games like foosball and more are also available.

Tackle Your Fear of Heights on the Ropes Course

Are you scared of heights? Or maybe you just like the thrill of them? Either way, ropes courses on Carnival ships will give you some excitement. Strap in and tackle the challenging walkways that soar above the deck below, with fantastic views of the water. Don’t worry, you’re well secured so there’s no risk of falling. Even so, it’s still a challenge to complete.

Get a Workout With a Great View

Not many people want to go on a cruise to exercise, but it’s a great way to feel better about eating that entire steak and lobster the night before. As an added bonus, the gym is usually in an enviable location, with floor-to-ceiling windows that give gorgeous ocean views while you jog on the treadmill.

Most gyms are stocked rather well, with plenty of machines and space for anyone interested in getting a workout done. These aren’t your small, dark gyms like you might find in a hotel.

Play a Card Game or Dominos

Ships sometimes have game rooms that are perfect for spending some time playing a game with your friends or family. Or you can just find a table somewhere around the ship to play. We’d suggest bringing your favorite games from home (a pack of cards or some dice will do just fine in a pinch) as sometimes the ship doesn’t have any games in stock. Still, if you want a break from the heat and humidity, it’s a great option to spend some time with your travel partners and even make some new friends on the ship.

Let the Kids Have Their Own Time and Independence

We’re in no way advocating that you let your children run wild across the ship. If your kids aren’t responsible or mature enough to be on their own, then keep an eye on them. That said, cruise ships are good places to let them gain some independence and freedom. In addition to kids clubs (where older kids can check themselves in and out), they can also go eat at the buffet on their own or hit the arcade. 

Let the Kids Play at Camp Ocean

Carnival offers up a spot for kids to hang out and play in a supervised setting, known as Camp Ocean. Here, you can drop off kids aged 2-11 (there are also teen hangouts onboard as well that kids can come and go as they please) to play while parents enjoy themselves around the ship. In fact, your kids will likely beg you to let them play here.

Camp Ocean has everything from group activities to arts and crafts to movie time to video games. It’s a fantastic way to go enjoy the ship yourself while your kids also have a blast.

Try Your Hand at Trivia

Looking for a fun way to get some friendly competition during your trip? Trivia contests go on several times a day, covering all sorts of themes from The Simpsons to flags of the world. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be a Jeopardy! winner to be able to compete. You’ll find all skill levels having a good time playing along. And if you win? A Carnival winner’s medal might be yours.

Watch a Comedian at the Punchliner Comedy Club

Cruise lines are known for their shows and entertainment on board. If you want to laugh, then check out the Punchliner Comedy Club or the Limelight Lounge. There are usually two types of shows — a more family-friendly routine that takes place earlier in the evening and a late-night show that’s definitely adults-only. And trust us when we say that the adults-only shows are exactly that. Even some grown-ups might be shocked by some of the jokes!

Dance the Night Away at the Nightclub Parties

If you like to go out to the club or love a dance party, then you’re going to love cruising. Not only are there nightclubs to enjoy, but there are often themed dance parties. For instance, Carnival has an “Electric White Night” where you put on your favorite white outfit to bust a groove. The parties usually start around 10 p.m. and go to around midnight (or later in some cases). So it’s not exactly South Beach, but is still a great time.

Attend the Hilarious Love & Marriage Game Show

A staple of many cruises is a take on The Newlywed Game, which on Carnival is known as the “Love & Marriage” game show. Here, three couples are selected from the audience as contestants. Then, they separated and asked private questions about each other and their marriage, where they must match the answers given by their spouse.

The answers are sometimes funny, sometimes surprising, but always interesting. For anyone that’s married or ever been married, it’s a can’t miss show.

Ride the Only Roller Coaster at Sea

Every new class of cruise ship aims to offer that’s a signature feature — something not seen anywhere else. In the case of Carnival, that’s the BOLT! roller coaster. This is a literal roller coaster that circles the aft portion of the ship. You’ll find it on Excel-class ships like Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee.

The ride doesn’t last long — only about a minute — and there is a charge. Still, it’s a fun experience, and it’s not every day that you get to ride a roller coaster atop a cruise ship.

Get a Massage in the Spa

Cruise ships are floating resort hotels. That means they come with all sorts of services, including a full spa. You can get pampered in style, with everything from a massage to acupuncture. And what’s more relaxing than getting a rub down while on your vacation? It will set you back some cash (massages aren’t free), but you’ll come out of it feeling worth a million bucks.

Watch the Stage Shows on the Ship

The dance production crew on a Carnival ship are supremely talented and put on several shows throughout the cruise. If you’re on the fence about these, let us say that you don’t want to miss them. There are productions many nights of the cruise, usually at 7:30 and 9:30 so that you don’t miss a thing if you have a dinner during that time. In the evening these are the main highlights of things to do and a fun way to spend your time before or after dinner.

Take an Excursion in a Port of Call

This article is purposely focused on the things you can do on a Carnival ship, but there is a lot of fun off of it too. We suggest taking at least one excursion to get out and explore wherever you are in port. They can offer a way to do things that you’d never be able to experience back home.

If you aren’t sure which one is right for you, go talk with the staff at the shore excursions desk on the ship. Here you can get all the ins and outs of each experience and pick the perfect one for you. 

Watch (or Compete in) the Poolside Contests

One of the most fun things the Carnival has cooked up during sea days are the “contests” by the pool on days at sea, such as the hairy chest contest. Imagine eight of the biggest, burliest, hairiest passengers all stripping their shirts and dancing to win the crown for the contest. The contest takes place poolside during the early afternoon. Be sure to grab a spot to watch early as the entire ship will be there.

Pour The Least Expensive Beer We’ve Seen on a Cruise

It’s no secret that cruise lines make money on selling drinks on the ship. It’s common to pay $7-8 for a beer and upwards of $10-12 for a cocktail on Carnival. So when there is a deal to be found, you should pay attention.

Carnival offers a self-serve beer tap, usually found in the ship’s buffet. You simply tap your key card and are charged by the ounce you pour. The price comes out to about $4-5 for a beer — making it the cheapest we’ve seen on a cruise ship.

Have a Relaxing Soak in One of the Hot Tubs

There’s a lot of talk about the pool on a cruise, and it is one of the main focal points on board. But don’t forget about the hot tubs. There are several on the ship, including ones in the Serenity adults-only area and near each pool. Have a dip and let the heat and bubbles massage away the soreness. Just make sure you are comfortable sharing a hot tub with others as they can get crowded.

Enjoy the Biggest Drink on the Cruise Ship

Part of the fun of a cruise is letting loose a little bit… or a lot. So what about grabbing the biggest drink on the ship?

In the RedFrog Pub, Carnival serves up tropical drinks that you can get in a “fish bowl.” This drink is huge — about 2-3 times the size of a normal beverage. It will run you about $35-40, but that’s for the drink and the souvenir glass that can be refilled later for a discount.

One tip — watch the daily planner for happy hour in the pub, when drinks are sold for half-off.

Get All Fancy for Elegant Night

Elegant nights take you back to the early days of cruising. These days things are a bit more casual, but elegant nights are still fun for many people. On a seven-day cruise there will normally be two elegant nights. Shorter cruises will have one. You can dress up as much or as little as you want, but if you are planning to dine in the main dining room, then it’s best to get dolled up. If you’re not sure what to wear, you can read our guide here .

Try a Drink from Every Bar on the Ship

Keep your wits about you, but you can do a bar crawl across the ship if you’re so inclined. There are normally a ton of places to get a drink — more than a dozen in many cases — so be sure to pace yourself over a couple of days. But if you’re looking for a way to spend your days at sea, try a sample from each bar on the ship. Each bar will have many of the same drinks, but some have special menus not found elsewhere.

Win a Contest on the Ship

We’ve talked about trivia and the hairy chest contest. There are a lot more contests for everything from free-throw shooting to ping-pong. Try your hand at whatever you’re good at and do your best to win first place. Carnival often gives away a famous “ship on a stick” (a golden cruise ship trophy) that you can always keep to remember your vacation.

Really Relax in the Serenity Adults-Only Area

There’s no shortage of topside places to relax on the newest Carnival ships, including multiple pools and hot tubs. But the Serenity Adults-Only area is among the most relaxing areas. First no kids are allowed (it is 21+). But even better is that we think many people either don’t know about the area or simply want to be where the action is at the main pool.

In our experience there are drastically fewer people here than poolside. That gives you some nice peace and quiet. There are also private clamshell loungers and hot tubs to relax even more.

Don’t Miss the Towel Animal Invasion

Carnival is famous for their towel animals. Head back to the cabin after dinner and you’ll be greeted by one created by the room steward. But head to the pool deck early in the morning toward the end of your cruise, and you’ll find a full invasion.

Something special that Carnival likes to do is to put together hundreds of towel animals across all the pool loungers. You’ll find elephants, dinosaurs, alligators, dogs, turtles, and more. If you’re an adult, it’s a fun little quirk. But if you have kids, it’s something they will definitely want to see.

Do a Search for the Ship’s Coin

If you want to explore the ship and have a fun scavenger hunt at the same time, then set out to hunt down the ship’s coin.

Carnival ships have a coin minted as a memento of the vessel being built. The coin is then displayed and passengers can go view it. There often isn’t much fanfare around the coin, so don’t expect a big neon sign pointing to it. Instead, it’s been enclosed in a small glass box with a picture of the ship and labeled with the year it was built.

We’ve found them often near pool decks in the open air toward the middle of the ship, but locations may vary.

Take Your Picture in Front of the Ship

One thing that you can’t miss is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to remember your cruise — getting a photo with the ship. When you board on embarkation day, there will be a photographer and a backdrop with an image of the ship. And when you get off at ports of call you’ll see a photographer setup as well.

These photos are great, but you will have to pay for them if you decide to buy (taking the photo itself is no charge). You can also just find a spot on the pier with the ship in the background to where you can take a selfie that won’t cost you anything at all.

For more on sailing Carnival, see our articles below:

• 47 Best Carnival Cruise Line Tips, Tricks, and Things to Know
• Worth It? 15+ Questions & Answers About the Carnival CHEERS! Package
• Complete Guide to Sailing Carnival Cruise Line (What It’s Like)

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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Best Carnival cruise ships: Here’s which ship you should sail, based on your travel style

Choosing a Carnival cruise ship is no simple task, especially if you're new to cruising. As one of the largest cruise brands in the world, Carnival Cruise Line has more than two dozen vessels in its fleet, offering everything from megaship adventures to smaller-ship experiences. Many variables — price, embarkation dates, travel companions, ship size and amenities, and destination — can shape the way you make your choice.

So, what is the best Carnival cruise ship? Here are my picks for the top options in several categories.

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Mardi Gras: Best Carnival cruise ship for families

The best Carnival cruise ship for kids is undoubtedly Mardi Gras . Not only is it one of Carnival's newest vessels, but it's also one of the largest, and it has tons of activities to keep families with children busy.

At the expansive kids club, daily programming includes scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, and video games. The club draws in young cruisers and gives them space to make friends and play with peers. Beyond the dedicated kids facilities, the ship has a massive arcade and many top-deck diversions. One of these is the Ultimate Playground — a space encompassing a ropes course, waterslides and Bolt, the first-ever roller coaster at sea . (Note that the arcade and Bolt cost extra.)

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

Mardi Gras is full of fantastic family-friendly dining, including the line's Dr. Seuss-themed Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast (for a small fee). The ship also includes pizza, soft-serve ice cream, Shaq's fried chicken and Guy Fieri burgers in its fares. Even the pickiest of eaters will be satisfied. Kids can order off special menus in the complimentary main dining rooms and join in their waiters' rollicking dance performances just when they start to get antsy sitting still.

The ship also does a nice job of accommodating families of all sizes and budgets. Many of Mardi Gras' standard cabins sleep at least four people, and the ship offers connecting cabins.

Its Family Harbor staterooms provide access to a special family lounge area with TVs, sitting areas and internet stations. Breakfast is offered there each morning, and snacks and drinks — including free soda — are provided throughout the day. So, you never have to go far when the kids need a snack. Cabins in the Family Harbor category feature a nautical theme, plenty of storage and space to sleep at least four people.

Mardi Gras' new sister ship, Carnival Celebration, is also a fantastic option in this category, offering a nearly identical experience (with just a few changes in the names and themes of specific venues).

Carnival Horizon: Best ship for luxury lovers

Let's be clear: Carnival is not a luxury cruise line, nor does it offer huge suites on most ships. The suites it has are smaller than most other brands' high-end accommodations, and they do not include amenities like butler service.

With that in mind, one ship that offers slightly more exclusive options is Carnival Horizon — the second vessel in Carnival's three-ship Vista class. It offers a top-deck, adults-only Serenity sun deck area; an extensive menu of spa treatments, salon services and fitness classes at the onboard Cloud 9 Spa; and a handful of upmarket cabin offerings.

If you're into wellness, relaxation and self-care, check out the spa and fitness center's manicures, pedicures, facials, massages, teeth whitening treatments, acupuncture, anti-wrinkle procedures, state-of-the-art cycling classes, thermal suite, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms for a fee. For digs that include pampering, try a Cloud 9 Spa cabin to receive extras like complimentary thermal suite access and two free yoga or Pilates classes.

Related: The 8 best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

If exclusive stateroom enclaves are what you seek, you'll want to book one of the ship's Havana Cabana cabins. They come in several varieties, from 185-square-foot insides to Havana Suites, which offer 260 square feet of interior space (with a dividing wall to separate sleeping and living areas), plus a 100-square-foot patio area with loungers and a hammock. All Havana Cabana cruisers get access to an exclusive lanai and pool deck. With a suite booking, you'll also receive priority embarkation and disembarkation.

If a traditional suite is more your style, consider a Grand Suite, which includes priority embarkation, disembarkation and dining times, as well as access to the Havana pool area. Note, however, that Grand Suites run only 345 square feet with 85-square-foot balconies — disappointing when you consider some of Royal Caribbean's largest rooms are nearly five times that size.

The only ships on which you'll find larger accommodations are the line's newest: Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee, all of which house Presidential Suites. Those accommodations offer 1,120 square feet of space with 600-square-foot balconies and separate living and sleeping areas. However, the ships — part of the line's Excel Class — are so large and attract so many families that I've ruled them out as the most luxurious.

Carnival Conquest: Best ship for budget travelers

If you're on a budget and simply looking for one of the cheapest Carnival cruise ships, a solid bet is Carnival Conquest. It offers Bahamas and Caribbean voyages of three to five nights. Think of it this way: The shorter the cruise , the less expensive it will be.

Plus, it sails from Miami, one of the world's largest cruise hubs. More ships leaving from a specific port means more competition, which can drive prices lower.

Related: The 8 classes of Carnival ships, explained

Carnival Conquest is one of the line's oldest ships, but it's also a ton of fun. Because short sailings tend to attract a more lively crowd, passengers can expect lots of dancing, socializing and late nights at Henri's Dance Club. During the day, passengers enjoy spending time around the pool and grabbing free burgers from Guy's Burger Joint.

It's also one of the few vessels left in the fleet that still features jaw-dropping interiors designed by renowned architect Joe Farcus, who made Carnival synonymous with quirky patterns, bright colors and neon lights.

At the time of publication, prices started from $47 per person, per night, for an inside cabin.

Carnival Sunrise: Best Carnival cruise ship for singles

Unfortunately, Carnival has been slow to adopt solo cabins, meaning that no ships in its fleet offer accommodations for one.

Because all staterooms are designed for double occupancy, it's generally a rule that a person traveling alone must pay both fares. This means they would pay twice as much per person as two people sharing a room.

Related: The best cruise ships for solo travelers

In order to make the single supplement as affordable as possible, solo Carnival cruisers will want to balance finding an inexpensive vessel with choosing one that sails short itineraries. They'll also probably want one that's a bit livelier (read: not the oldest in the fleet).

A great contender for the title of best Carnival ship for singles is Carnival Sunrise. Formerly Carnival Triumph, the ship was completely gutted, overhauled and renamed in 2019. Although it originally debuted in 1999, it feels fresh and nearly new. It offers the line's signature Serenity adults-only sun deck, RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and a slew of lounges, nightclubs and daily activities.

Combine that with short, affordable voyages from Miami, and you can sail to the Bahamas or Caribbean for four or five nights from as little as $104 per night if you're solo. Short sailings also tend to draw a more fun-loving, social crowd. So, if your goal is to mingle and potentially meet other solo cruisers, you stand a good chance on Carnival Sunrise.

Carnival Pride: Best ship for retirees

Retired travelers have all the time in the world to take longer cruises, which generally allow them to visit more far-flung locales. Those trips can come with a substantial price tag, which is why, as a budget option, Carnival is such a great choice.

In particular, Carnival Pride's voyages consist of nine- and 12-night itineraries to the Baltic, British Isles and Iceland on a regular cadence. Longer voyages mean more time to explore but also fewer children and less of a frat party vibe. (Take note if you're thinking of bringing your grandkids.)

Related: The 7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel

Carnival Pride is one of the oldest ships sailing for Carnival. That actually works in its favor if you're a retiree who enjoys smaller ships and vintage design — in this case, more artwork and decor by Farcus.

In addition to a comedy club and an onboard spa, the ship also offers an adults-only sun deck, several bars and lounges, and plenty of dining options and daily activities to stave off boredom on longer voyages.

Bottom line

So, which Carnival cruise ship is the best? It all depends on your specific preferences. Whether you're searching for an inexpensive vacation, a family-friendly vessel or a ship that will take you on a longer voyage to Europe, there's a Carnival cruise to fit your taste and budget.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

Protect Your Trip »

15 top adults-only cruises for 2025 & 2026.

Pack your bags and leave the kids behind for your next cruise adventure.

Top Adults-Only Cruises

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

If your idea of getting away from it all includes a vacation without the kids, consider booking an adults-only or adults-oriented cruise . While some lines provide a fully adults-only experience (i.e., children are not allowed on board), others offer adult-focused venues and activities on the ship to keep you separate from younger patrons.

The following cruise lines provide upscale amenities, immersive excursions, sophisticated dining options, lively nighttime entertainment and time for relaxation among like-minded – and similarly aged – travelers.

Find your perfect cruise

Viking Ocean Cruises

Courtesy of Viking

Travelers ages 18 and older are welcome aboard Viking 's adults-only ships, which feature destination-focused itineraries around the world. The line's 11 oceangoing ships carry between 930 and 998 guests (at double occupancy) and offer luxurious, comfortable Scandinavian-style spaces. The line will add Viking Vesta to its ocean fleet in 2025.

Viking's exploration program boasts special access to behind-the-scenes experiences curated for travelers who are interested in history, food, the arts or science. Immerse yourself in local culture with a visit to a traditional family farm near Bergen, Norway, or spend an evening dining on Chinese specialties at a home-hosted dinner in Shanghai .

In addition to these off-the-beaten-path excursions, guests can visit iconic sites like the ancient city of Ephesus (Kuşadasi) in Turkey and the Acropolis in Athens, Greece . Viking also hosts onboard enrichment programs like cooking classes and lectures by historians. Cruise fares include stateroom accommodations with a private veranda, all meals (including specialty dining venues), wine and beer at onboard lunch and dinner, 24-hour room service, one free excursion per port, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and access to onboard amenities such as the Nordic Spa and fitness center.

In addition to its ocean vessels, Viking offers river cruises in destinations around the world – including Mississippi River cruises aboard Viking Mississippi. The line also has two Polar Class 6 expedition ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, which traverse waterways from Canada, the U.S. and South America to remote destinations in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages offers an adults-only retreat for guests ages 18 and older. The line currently has three sister ships: Scarlet Lady (the first in the fleet), Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady . The line's fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, is set to debut in September 2025.

All the ships in this adults-only cruise line feature 1,404 cabins (most with balconies) and RockStar Quarters suites, where guests have access to Richard's Rooftop, an exclusive outdoor deck space. The superyacht-inspired vessels boast 20-plus eateries, including restaurants by Michelin-starred chefs, and a variety of onboard fitness and wellness spaces. At Redemption Spa, relax and recharge in the mud room or salt therapy chamber – and then take rejuvenating dips in the hot and cold plunge pools. You can even order a bottle of bubbly anywhere on the ship via the Virgin Voyages app's secret "Shake for Champagne" feature.

Itineraries on Virgin Voyages span destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and Morocco, as well as trans-Atlantic crossings. The line will also feature 21 new ports across its global fleet in 2025, including destinations in Iceland, Turkey, Oman, Italy, Portugal, the Cayman Islands and more. Cruise fares cover meals at all the dining venues and basic beverages such as soda, water, tea and coffee. Gratuities for the crew, Wi-Fi access, entertainment and group fitness classes are also included. While on board, be sure to indulge in a swanky dinner at The Wake and an immersive show at The Red Room, a unique multiform theater at sea.

P&O Cruises

Courtesy of P&O Cruises

Two ships in P&O Cruises' U.K.-based fleet – Arcadia and Aurora – are exclusively for adults 18 and older. Arcadia, the slightly newer of the two ships (debuted in 2005), carries 2,094 guests at double occupancy, plus 866 crew. The ship departs from Southampton in the U.K. and sails to a variety of European destinations, ranging from Spain and the Canary Islands to Norway and Iceland; some cruises visit the U.S. and Canada. The ship will also sail world cruises in January 2025 and 2026.

Arcadia's 15 restaurants, cafes and bars include Indian cuisine with a British twist at Sindhu, as well as steaks and seafood by renowned British chef Marco Pierre White at Ocean Grill. Passengers can take a class to sample the line's branded gins; sip Champagne at Intermezzo, the ship's cocktail and Champagne venue; or enjoy a pre-dinner aperitif at the yacht-inspired Spinnaker. After exploring exciting ports of call, head back on board to enjoy Arcadia's elegant interiors and top-notch service. You can splurge on a stone therapy treatment and a visit to the thermal suite at the spa for some extra pampering, followed by a live show at the three-tiered theater, The Palladium. Then, finish off the evening dancing the night away at The Globe.

Aurora is a slightly more intimate ship, carrying 1,874 passengers (double occupancy) and 850 crew members. A four-level atrium gallery sits at the heart of the vessel. Itineraries include destinations in the Mediterranean, the Baltic, the British Isles, Iceland, the Caribbean and South America. There are 19 restaurants, bars and cafes on the ship, including club-style restaurant Alexandria and casual spots like The Beach House. After dinner, live entertainment and dancing await you at the show lounge Carmen's, as do larger productions at the ritzy 660-seat Curzon Theatre.

Top Cruises Designed for Adults

While some all-inclusive – or mostly all-inclusive – boutique and luxury cruise lines are family-friendly, many of the onboard venues and activities are adult-by-design. Since there are few (or no) activities geared toward younger cruisers and no babysitting services, you typically won't find parents with young children on these ships.

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara's four upscale boutique ships provide immersive travel experiences geared toward adults. These smaller ships – accommodating a maximum of 702 guests – sail waterways and rivers that larger ships can't access, docking in city centers and unique ports of call around the globe.

Many Azamara voyages also offer longer stays and overnights in port, unlike some competitors' itineraries. Some even feature special events, such as a 12-night voyage from Rome to watch the Monaco Grand Prix in May 2025, or a 25-night cruise in February 2025 from Buenos Aires, Argentina , to attend Carnival in Rio de Janeiro . In addition, the line is extending its offerings on Country Intensive voyages in 2024 and 2025 with itineraries in various continental European countries, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Iceland and Australia.

On board, you'll find a wide selection of casual and formal dining options ranging from Windows Cafe to the main dining room, Discoveries Restaurant. Specialty restaurant offerings include top-notch steak and seafood at Prime C and Italian fare at Aqualina. Atlas Bar is a unique venue on Azamara Onward (the line's newest ship), though its artisanal cocktail menu is also available on the line's other ships. Discoveries Lounge is another guest-favorite spot, and wine aficionados will enjoy pairing limited-production and rare vintages from the Wine Cellar with dinner.

Cruise fares include stateroom accommodations; select spirits, wine and beer; gratuities; 24-hour room service; and nonalcoholic beverages. You'll also have access to complimentary AzAmazing Celebrations with special evening and daytime events ashore and on the ship. You can purchase a package that includes additional amenities like unlimited Wi-Fi, specialty dining, shore excursion credits and other perks. Butler service and other extras come with suite accommodations.

Courtesy of Scenic

When it launched in 2019, Scenic Eclipse I was touted as "The World's First Discovery Yacht." The intimate vessel offers an all-inclusive, ultra-luxurious experience for just 228 guests (double occupancy). The line's second luxury yacht, Scenic Eclipse II, which is nearly identical to its sister ship, debuted from Lisbon, Portugal , in April 2023. The Polar Class 6 rating enables these two yachts to sail to destinations like Antarctica; on these expedition-style voyages, the ship carries only 200 guests and offers a nearly one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio.

All suite accommodations include a private veranda or terrace; butler service; state-of-the-art amenities; a king-size Scenic Slumber Bed; and an in-suite minibar stocked with wine, spirits and other personally selected beverages. You'll also find indulgences like onboard helicopters for intimate excursions and the line's submersibles for underwater exploration.

Guests can enjoy up to 10 dining experiences on the ship, including French fine dining at Lumière; innovative Asian flavors at Koko's Asian Fusion; Italian, steak and seafood specialties at Elements; or an immersive dining experience at Chef's Garden @ Epicure. When it's time for an after-dinner drink, sample craft cocktails or the impressive selection of whiskeys available at Scenic Lounge Bar. Other onboard activities include getting an invigorating treatment at Senses Spa or just relaxing with Champagne and spectacular views on deck 10 at the Sky Bar.

Scenic's ships sail to destinations in Australia and the South Pacific; Europe and the Mediterranean; Asia; the Americas and the Caribbean; and the polar regions of Antarctica and the Arctic.

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Following Seven Seas Grandeur's launch in December 2023, this line now has six luxury vessels in its fleet. Regent Seven Seas ' all-inclusive fares include round-trip business class or coach airfare (depending on the destination); complimentary pre-cruise hotel stays; two- or three-night land packages; all meals and beverages; free shore excursions; prepaid gratuities; and more. Seven Seas Grandeur is a sister ship to the elegant Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor ; it features 372 luxurious all-balcony suites and an impressive ratio of 548 crew members to just 744 guests (double occupancy).

In the evenings, diners can choose between French cuisine at Chartreuse; creative Asian fare at Pacific Rim; steaks and seafood at Prime 7; Italian dishes at Sette Mari at La Veranda; or design-your-own-entree options at the ship's largest specialty restaurant, Compass Rose. For a casual evening, plan to dine alfresco at the Pool Grill. Adults can also enjoy pre-dinner cocktails in one of the lounges and nightly entertainment at the Constellation Theater. For a nightcap, sip a fine cognac in one of the ship's favorite hideaways, Connoisseur Club. There are also plenty of options for exercise, fitness and relaxation at Serene Spa & Wellness.

If you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure on the high seas, consider booking the Regent Suite. Situated on deck 14 – and boasting more than 4,400 square feet of indoor and outdoor space – this luxurious accommodation features an impressive balcony with a minipool spa, in addition to two bedrooms, a living room and dining room, and a private in-suite spa. Cruise fare for the suite also includes a long list of high-end amenities such as access to a private dining room called The Study, a personal car and guide in every port, free in-suite spa services, a complimentary cocktail party for eight guests, a private butler and more.

Regent's 2025-2026 Legendary Voyages include sailings to destinations like Barcelona, Tokyo and more. If a world cruise is on your bucket list, you can circumnavigate the globe for 154 nights beginning in January 2026 aboard Seven Seas Mariner.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea's all-inclusive luxury ocean and expedition cruises offer voyages to more than 900 destinations across the seven continents. Silversea's 11 ultra-luxury ships and expedition vessels range in size from 51 to 364 suites and boast spacious ocean view accommodations – most with private verandas. Cruise fares cover door-to-door transfers from home to the ship, including airfare (business class in some destinations) and pre- and post-cruise hotel stays. On board, guests will have butler service, a nearly one-to-one ratio of guests to staff, 24-hour gourmet dining, premium alcoholic beverages, one complimentary shore excursion in each port, gratuities and more.

Silver Ray is set to become the 12th ship in the Silversea fleet when it debuts in summer 2024. The luxury vessel adds more open spaces and top-notch cuisine. Silver Ray is also the second vessel in the fleet to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and is billed as a more sustainable cruise ship.

Four of the line's ships are purpose-built expedition vessels that sail to the farthest reaches of the Earth, including Antarctica, the Arctic and Greenland, French Polynesia and the Pacific, Asia, and more. On these sailings, guests will experience immersive exploration with as many as 28 expedition staff per cruise. Unique upcoming itineraries visit Greenland and the Arctic Circle, as well as remote locales like Robinson Crusoe Island, Tahiti and more.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn features an all-inclusive adult-focused experience on its five luxury ocean vessels and two expedition ships. One of the line's newest ships, Seabourn Pursuit, is an ultra-luxury Polar Class 6 purpose-built expedition vessel with 132 oceanfront veranda suites. The ship is equipped with two submarines for underwater exploration, kayaks and 24 Zodiacs. There's also a 24-person expedition team to assist guests with exploring far-reaching destinations like Antarctica, the Arctic, the Kimberley region of Australia, the Amazon and the Northwest Passage.

The new Seabourn Ovation accommodates up to 600 guests (double occupancy) and offers amenities found on most of Seabourn's ships: well-appointed oceanfront suites, living areas with dining tables, verandas and nearly a one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio. Guests can try Seabourn's new Mediterranean venue, Solis, on four of the line's ships, including Ovation. You'll also find health and wellness programs curated by Dr. Andrew Weil.

The Seabourn Conversations program is another highlight. Accomplished experts host adventures ashore, participate in meals and chat with guests on board. For a special treat, don't miss the Caviar in the Surf beach party. This event (available in select destinations) includes chilled Champagne, caviar, music and a barbecue set against a backdrop of white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Windstar Cruises

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Windstar's six intimate ships accommodate between 148 and 342 guests. Passengers can choose between cruising on one of the line's three-masted Wind Class vessels or one of its three Star Plus Class ships.

Windstar just announced the addition of two new ships to its fleet; Star Seeker is expected to launch in December 2025, followed by Star Explorer in December 2026. These two vessels will feature 112 suites with private verandas and infinity windows, two Owner's Suites with wraparound balconies, a water sports platform, a two-story spa and fitness center, and more. The ships are constructed with ice-strengthened hulls that position them for exploration in remote destinations like Antarctica.

Windstar's adult-focused and casual – but still elegant – onboard experiences feature locally inspired top-notch dining, guest lecturers, a water sports platform on all ships, an open bridge policy and an engaging social environment. If you're looking for a romantic getaway, Windstar is also regarded as one of the most romantic cruise lines for a wedding, honeymoon , vow renewal or anniversary trip, especially in magical destinations like the South Pacific or Europe.

Windstar's smaller ships can reach ports, coves, harbors and villages that are not accessible by larger vessels. They also offer more than 2,000 immersive cultural experiences in port, many with small groups. You'll find culinary-themed voyages in partnership with the James Beard Foundation, as well as wine-focused itineraries around the world. What's more, Windstar's itineraries offer late evenings and overnights in its ports of call, allowing guests to experience local culture and cuisine after dark.

Windstar will begin sailing in South America in December 2025 with the 312-passenger (double occupancy) Star Pride, offering excursions to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the town of Cusco , Machu Picchu and the Galápagos Islands .

Other Top Adults-Only Cruise Options

While these larger ships offer activities for families and children of all ages, adults can also find hidden retreats and venues just for grown-ups. These spaces are typically quieter and situated away from the crowds.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers spaces created with adult guests in mind. On Celebrity Beyond and the newest addition to the fleet, Celebrity Ascent , adults can have a unique dining experience at Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud. The world-renowned Global Culinary Ambassador for the line, Daniel Boulud created the menu at this elegant venue, incorporating dishes inspired by his travels. You'll also find an impressive wine list to accompany your dining experience.

When it's time to relax, The Solarium is a popular adults-only area located on the Resort Deck of all Celebrity ships. This light-filled pool area encased by a glass dome is the perfect quiet space for reading a book or taking a nap. While there, you can also grab a light breakfast or lunch at the Spa Cafe and Juice Bar, or order your favorite cocktail while lounging in the hot tub.

Other adult-focused venues to check out on Celebrity Ascent, Beyond and Apex are the new elevated bar spaces. The Edge series World Class Bar – a popular spot on other Celebrity Cruises ships – features craft cocktails in a beautiful setting. And don't miss the two-story Sunset Bar on Celebrity Ascent, a reimagined space by interior designer and TV personality Nate Berkus. The aft location of the bar offers almost twice the space as previous iterations and beautiful wake views.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

The Sanctuary, a retreat for guests ages 18 and older, offers an escape from bustling public spaces. The relaxing top-deck venue is available on all Princess Cruises ships and features plush lounge chairs, a spa-like setting and Serenity Stewards, who serve light bites and other refreshments. To fully unwind, consider reserving a private cabana, where you can book an open-air massage. The child-free venue varies from ship to ship, with some offering the exclusive Retreat pool, cabanas and a bar area, and newer iterations featuring more space.

Spellbound by Magic Castle is an exciting new venue aboard the line's newest ship, Sun Princess, for adults 21 and older. The collaboration with The Magic Castle private club in Hollywood offers guests an evening of magic, illusions and theatrical cocktails in a Victorian-inspired space.

If you're heading off the ship for an excursion to Princess Cays (the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas), plan to chill out for the day in an adults-only Sanctuary Bungalow. Located just minutes from the ocean and beach, the rentals accommodate four people, and the price includes two complimentary float rentals. You can also order a gourmet picnic to enjoy while lounging on shore.

Back on the ship, adults can reserve a spot for the line's new Winemaker Dinners, a partnership with Caymus Vineyards. These 12-guest evenings are offered fleetwide, two to three times during each cruise. Winemaker Chuck Wagner personally selected the wines from the notable Napa Valley winery to pair with the elevated five-course menu.

Carnival Cruise Line

The Serenity Adult-Only Retreat is located on all of Carnival Cruise Line 's ships. Access to this tranquil outdoor hideaway is complimentary for passengers 21 and older. While there, guests can enjoy relaxing loungers, daybeds and whirlpools. Take in the warm sun and ocean breeze with a signature sangria in hand, or stop for a healthy meal at the Fresh Creations salad bar (available on select ships) for an alfresco lunch.

Disney Cruise Line

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Though Disney Cruise Line tends to attract families and younger travelers, it also offers multiple spaces and activities for adults 18 and older. Disney's newest ship, Disney Wish , boasts several luxurious adults-only venues featuring characters and scenes from "Beauty and the Beast."

For top-notch steaks, contemporary Italian cuisine and panoramic ocean views, make a reservation at the Cogsworth-inspired Palo Steakhouse. If you prefer French-style fare and world-class wines served in an elegant and shimmering setting, Enchanté by three-Michelin-starred chef Arnaud Lallement is the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two. Before dinner at either venue, enjoy a signature cocktail at The Rose. After dinner, you won't want to miss the galactic libations and ever-changing views of faraway galaxies at the adults-only Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge bar.

Depending on the ship, adult travelers can also dance the night away in a trendy club, watch live entertainment or a cabaret show, catch a sports game on satellite TV, or relax with an after-dinner cocktail at a bar or lounge. Outdoors, the kid-free Quiet Cove Pool is a tranquil place to relax on all the ships. For even more pampering, Senses Spa & Salon boasts treatment rooms with ocean views, luxurious spa villas and other amenities. On Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line 's private island, adults can head to Serenity Bay – a scenic, adults-only stretch of the beach.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line has three adults-only outdoor venues for guests 18 and older (though specific spaces vary by ship). On Norwegian 's Bliss, Escape, Getaway and Breakaway ships, the Vibe Beach Club sun deck invites guests to relax in oversized hot tubs and comfy daybeds, adding perks like a full-service bar and chilled towels. Guests can enjoy two-story beach clubs on Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore, while the clubs on Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva include the line's first infinity hot tubs. You can purchase a multiday pass in advance for the club, and cabana rentals are available for more privacy.

At Norwegian Epic's two-level Posh Beach Club, complimentary perks include fruit skewers, cold water spritzers and a snack menu. Multiday passes are available to all adult cruisers, while travelers who book a Haven suite can access Posh Beach Club for free. Spice H2O is another adults-only venue on the Norwegian Bliss, Joy, Escape, Getaway, Breakaway, Epic, Star and Spirit vessels; access is complimentary. At night, the space becomes an open-air dance club where you can spend the evening partying under the stars.

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Solarium is Royal Caribbean International 's complimentary, child-free space open to guests 18 and older. Located at the front of every ship in the fleet, this indoor-outdoor oasis (or indoor-only on Quantum Class ships) offers impressive vistas and endless views of the sea. Thanks to a full glass canopy over the interior space, adult passengers can enjoy quiet lounging areas, swimming pools and whirlpool tubs with a view, no matter the weather. Select ships feature a cascading lagoon for further relaxation.

Be sure to grab a tropical cocktail or zero-proof drink at Solarium Bar (or Sunshine Bar, on Quantum ships) to sip poolside while enjoying the ocean vistas. Guests of both bars must be at least 21 years old when sailing from North America or a minimum of 18 when departing from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

Adult cruisers (18 and older) can relax and chill out at the first suspended infinity pool at sea at The Hideaway on Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Icon of the Seas. The beach-vibe neighborhood, perched eight stories above the sea at the back of the ship, features Champagne cocktails, a DJ spinning tunes, full-size daybeds, a wraparound bar, and endless ocean and sunset views from the multilevel terrace.

Frequently Asked Questions

"Adults-only cruise ships – or adults-only spaces on cruise ships – have become increasingly popular over the years," says Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic. "That's not only because fewer people are having families. It's also because parents themselves often want the chance to get away, either by themselves for a romantic trip or with friends to celebrate a special occasion, girls' or guys' weekend, or milestone birthdays."

"I seek out adult spaces on cruise ships primarily because I want my experience on a ship to mirror my life on land – a little quieter, with more sophisticated food and drink options," she explains. "I also appreciate the opportunity to connect with my friends who are parents in a space where we can have personal one-on-one conversations or let loose a bit with some drinks. Adults with children are more than just their kids, after all – and they also appreciate a space where they don't have to worry about their little ones."

Anne Scully, a partner at the luxury travel company EMBARK Beyond, says, "With so many cruise lines and sailings, it's always a good idea to have options – and adults-only cruises are very popular." She adds, "Viking and Virgin have always focused on adults-only cruises and most river cruises also cater to adult passengers."

Adults-only cruises are designed with guests ages 18 and older in mind, from the staterooms and dining venues to the onboard entertainment and shore excursions. What you typically won't find on board are water or theme parks, climbing walls, game rooms, and restaurants serving kid-friendly foods.

If you're looking for a relaxing, fun and romantic vacation without the kids in tow – and you don't want to deal with the other passengers' children on your getaway – consider booking a sailing specifically for cruisers at least 18 years old. Alternatively, select a cruise line or ship that caters to mostly adults and doesn't offer any services, kids clubs, babysitting or activities for children.

You don't have to be a kid to be a Disney Cruise Line fan. While the line does not have an adults-only vessel within the fleet, there are plenty of kid-free spaces for adults only. Adults can enjoy cocktails, dinner and entertainment in several venues and relax at designated pool areas on the ship. There's also private, adults-only stretch of beach, Serenity Bay, on the line's private island, Castaway Cay.

In addition, Disney offers one of the best programs to keep youngsters entertained at sea, so you'll find that many of the children hang out in the kids club during the day and in the evening. These club spaces are divided by age groups, and they're typically open until midnight or 1 a.m. so parents – and even adults without kids – can enjoy a night out on the ship sans kids.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and Vietnam and Cambodia and an expedition vessel in Antarctica. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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Serenity Adults Only Cruise Retreat

Somebody at Carnival knows just what you need, and it's the Adult-Only Serenity™ Retreat. You’ll still be on the same ship as the kids, but it will feel like an adult’s cruise. The adults-only retreat allows you to easily forget the Carnival-style excitement. Well, leave it to the kids anyway. You can sit back and enjoy a spa and hot tub , beauty salon , and facial treatment . And our Carnival cruise ship also includes the amazing Cloud 9 Spa , with a thermal suite , Hydrotherapy pool , and more. Once you’re relaxed, enjoy the nightlife and visit a bar , casino , or nightclub . And let the kids have their fun as well, with lots to do for tweens or teens . Enjoy adults cruise activities to reconnect with your partner, finish that book, have some lavish some spa time, or do absolutely, blissfully, nothing at all.

The Details

If you like this, you'll love these....

Best Cruise Ship Games to Pack for Adults and Kids in 2024

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: December 3, 2019  - Last updated: January 16, 2023

Can you take your own games on a cruise ship? You can, and you should! Here are 40+ cruise ship games to pack for adults and kids.

If you’re planning a cruise with a lot of sea days , you’re probably wondering what to do for fun during all of that downtime. Cruise ship games like Bingo, trivia contests, and game shows are offered by most cruise lines, but they’re often only scheduled a few times per week.

Although cruise lines offer lots of activities, taking your own games on a cruise ship can be a great idea. I always do! Cruise ships usually have a small library of games for passengers to borrow, but there’s no guarantee which games will be available.

This guide reviews over 40 of the best games to take on a cruise ship for all ages. Some are travel games and some are full-size. Cruise lines don’t have luggage restrictions like airlines do, so if you’re driving to the port, you can take full-size games without worrying that they’re too heavy. Plus, you can take an extra bag (or three!) without any fees.

If you’re flying to the cruise port, you’ll definitely encounter luggage restrictions. I’ve included plenty of smaller travel games for you. I’ve also included the dimensions of each game along with its weight.

Any of these games would also make a great gift for someone going on a cruise !

Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase from a link on this site, at no added charge to you. For more info, please read my  Disclosure Policy .

Dice games to take on a cruise

Left Center Right

Suitable for age 5+, 3 or more players. 3″ x 5.5″ x 1″, 3.2 ounces

What it’s all about

Left Center Right is a fast-paced dice game where players roll to determine which way to pass their chips—to the left, center, or right.

How to play

Each player starts with three chips.

One player starts by rolling three specially-marked dice, with either L, C, R, or a dot on each side.

When a player rolls L, they pass a chip to the left. R means they pass a chip to the right, and C means they put a chip in the center pot. If a player rolls a dot, they keep a chip.

Once the first player completes the actions indicated on the dice, play continues to the left.

If a player has fewer than three chips when it’s their turn to roll, they only roll the number of dice equal to the number of remaining chips.

If a player runs out of chips, they’re not completely out of the game—the players next to them might pass chips to them as the game progresses. However, they can’t roll any dice unless they have at least one chip.

The game continues until only one player has any chips. They are the winner, and take everything in the center pot.

Why you’ll love this game on a cruise

We play Left Center Right at all of our holiday get-togethers, and it’s great for all ages. There’s no strategy—it’s all luck, so even younger kids can join in the fun with a little help. You can play with the included chips, or switch it up and play with coins or dollar bills.

There’s no reading or math involved, so younger kids who know their letters and left from right (or are trying to learn left and right!) can easily play along with the family.

Pass the Pigs

Suitable for age 7+, 2-4 players. 1.8″ x 4″ x 8.5 , 4.8 ounces

Pass the Pigs may look like it’s just for kids, but it’s actually a dice game —the pigs are the dice!

One player is chosen to be the “swineherd” and is in charge of recording scores on the scorepad.

One player starts by tossing both pigs into the air over the table.

The pigs are weighted, and each has a different value depending on how they land (each pig has a dot on one side), and points are won or lost based on the way the pigs land.

At the end of your turn, the swineherd records your score and you pass the pigs to the next player.

A turn lasts until the player either wipes out their current score, loses their entire game score, or decides to stop their turn. If a player chooses to stop, they add that turn’s score to their total score and pass the pigs to the next player. The winner is the first player to reach 100 points.

In addition to being super cute, Pass the Pigs is seriously addictive. Each game lasts only about 15 minutes, and you’ll have so much fun calling out the different positions the pigs land in—like a “double trotter” or “pig out”.

Advanced players can use strategy to decide whether to roll again or pass the pigs to the next player, or you can simply play it as a game of chance.

Suitable for age 7+, 2-4 players. 10.5″ x 1.5″ x 1.5″, 9 ounces

TENZI is an incredibly fast and unique dice game that you can play even with very limited time.

The rules for this game are super simple. Each TENZI player gets 10 dice. Everyone then rolls all of their own dice as quickly as possible.

Players can then choose to re-roll any or all of their dice.

The first player to have all their dice showing the same number (and yell “TENZI!”) is the winner.

Each game of TENZI only takes about a minute, so it’s great to have on hand when boredom strikes and you don’t want a long, involved game. There are also tons of variations to the game to mix things up a bit.

Yahtzee to Go

Suitable for age 8+, 2 or more players. 5.4″ x 5.2″ x 3.1″, 7.2 ounces

If you’re familiar with Yahtzee, Yahtzee to Go is just a travel-sized version with the same rules. The game is similar to traditional dice games like Poker Dice, Generala, and Kniffel.

Yahtzee is played with scorecards that contain specific combinations, much like poker, that players are aiming to roll with the dice.

To choose the first player, each player rolls all five dice from the dice cup. Whoever has the highest total goes first.

Players roll the five dice up to three times per turn, choosing which dice to reroll after the first roll.

A score must be entered in the appropriate box on the scorecard after the final roll of each turn, or a zero is entered in a box of the player’s choice.

Once all the scorecard boxes are filled in, the final tally is added up, and the winner is the player with the most points.

Yahtzee is easy to learn—the rolls you’re aiming for are right on the scorecard, so there’s no confusion (or arguing over rules!). It’s simple enough to play with elementary-age kids, but adults and teens can enjoy the strategic aspects of the game.

Don’t You Forget It

Suitable for age 8+, 2-6 players. 4.5″ x 1.8″ x 7.8″, 0.8 ounces

Don’t You Forget It is an exciting dice rolling game where players have the opportunity to match dice to double, triple, or even quadruple their scores. But watch out! Rolling the wrong combination of words can cause a player to lose their turn.

Players take turns rolling the nine dice, each of which has the numbers 1-5 and one side marked “FOR”, “GET”, or “IT”. Try to get as many dice as possible to match before rolling FOR-GET-IT.

On each turn, certain dice must be set aside on each roll. Word dice must always be set aside. If a player rolls two or more number dice of a kind, they will set aside that number only.

During a turn, a player can choose to keep rolling the remaining dice to try to match the number that was set aside. Or, they can choose to stop at any time and record their score.

At the end of a turn, the face value of the number dice is added up to determine the score. Four of a kind will double the score, five of a kind will triple it, and six will quadruple the score.

Play continues until a player reaches 500 points. The other players then have one last turn to try to beat that total before the player is determined to be the winner.

Anyone who enjoys Yahtzee and other dice games will love Don’t You Forget It . The twist is the FOR-GET-IT that will suddenly end your turn! There’s a bit of math involved in this game, so it’s a good one for kids (or adults!) who need to practice their mental multiplication.

Suitable for age 8+, 2 or more players. 7.6″ x 3.6″ x 3.5″, 9.6 ounces

Farkle is a classic dice game where players try their luck to earn as many points as possible in a turn without rolling a Farkle: failing to roll any scoring dice.

Players’ names are written on the scorecard, which describes point values for various combinations of dice.

Each player takes turns rolling the dice. Players roll all six dice at the beginning of a turn.

Any dice that score on the scorecard can be set aside (a 1 or a 5, three of a kind, or a straight of six dice). Any of the dice (except for at least one scoring die) can be re-rolled.

You can pass and bank your points, or risk the points earned so far in the turn and roll the remaining dice.

Your turn continues until either you either decide to stop and tally your score, or you fail to roll any scoring dice on a throw—this is the dreaded Farkle. If you get a Farkle, you can re-roll any dice you haven’t set aside, but all your other points are lost.

The first player to score 10,000 points wins, as long as no other players with a remaining turn can exceed that score.

Farkle is a fun game for just two people to play, but it’s even more exciting to play with a larger group. Do you keep rolling and try to hit that higher score, or do you fear the dreaded Farkle?

Suitable for age 8+, One or more players. 2″ x 4.3″ x 4.3″, 7.2 ounces

Boggle challenges players to find as many words as possible from a grid of letters before time runs out.

One player shakes the grid to mix up the letter cubes. Then they lift the lid and flip the timer.

All players have 90 seconds to write down as many 3+ letter words as they can find on the grid before time is up.

Words must be created by using adjoining letters in the order in which they appear on the grid horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Words can be spelled backward.

Any word that can be found in a standard dictionary may be used, except for proper nouns.

At the end of the round, each word is scored based on its total number of letters. Longer words earn a higher score.

If two or more players find the same word, that word doesn’t count! The player with the highest score wins.

Boggle is a fast-paced dice game, but with letters instead of numbers. It’s perfect for people who love words and anagrams. Scrabble and Words With Friends players will enjoy this one! You can also play it solo and keep trying to beat your own best score.

Suitable for age 8+, 2-5 players. 5.2″ x 3.8″ x 1.2″, 3.84 ounces

Qwixx is a fast-paced game played with six colorful dice and matching numbered rows that need to be crossed off to score points.

The first player rolls all six dice, and all players can (but don’t have to) cross out that number from any one of the colored rows on their scoresheet.

The first player then adds the sum of one white die and any one of the colored dice. Only that player can cross out that number on the corresponding color row on their score sheet.

Rows on the scoresheet can be locked by any player who has at least five numbers in that row and has a sum that matches the number on the right. That color die is removed from the game.

If the first player hasn’t crossed out at least one number, they mark an “X” in the penalty box. The next player then rolls.

The game ends when one player crosses off the fourth penalty box on their scoresheet OR two of the dice are removed from the game.

Each player subtracts five points per penalty from their total score. The player with the highest score wins.

At first glance, the rules of Qwixx sound complicated, but you’ll get the hang of it quickly. Or should I say Qwickly? (Sorry.) Qwixx is great for anyone who loves dice games but is looking for something a little different than the old favorites.

Card games to take on a cruise

Mahjong Cards

Suitable for age 6+, 1 or 4 players. 2.9″ x 2.5″ x 2″, 4.8 ounces.

Mahjong cards is played just like traditional mahjong with tiles. The deck has 156 cards: three suites of 36 circles, characters, and bamboo, plus 16 winds, 12 dragons, 8 flowers and seasons, and 12 jokers. (Remove the jokers for traditional Chinese rules.)

Cards are shuffled, and the players arrange them in the center of the table, 17 cards long and two cards high. After rolling the dice, the dealer deals cards in order to each player.

The goal of the game is to get a mahjong: that’s getting all of your tiles into four sets and one pair of two identical tiles. Sets can be made up of a “pung,” three identical tiles, or a “chow,” three consecutive numbers in the same suit. Play stops after sixteen rounds, or after a pre-determined number of points are scored, or until all the players agree that they are done.

The classic game of Mahjong, which has roots dating back to 500 BC, is still a favorite pastime today. If you’re packing light, you might not want to take a full set of tiles and racks on your cruise. Plus, a small deck of Mahjong cards will fit on most tables, so you can play just about anywhere around the ship.

Haven’t played before? The game comes with a set of western rules, covering everything from set up to seating to how to play—no previous knowledge is required. You can play with three friends, or even play solitaire.

Suitable for age 7+, 2-6 players. 3.6″ x 0.8″ x 5.8″, 4.5 ounces.

Phase 10 is a rummy-style game where players race to be the first to complete ten phases.

One player is chosen to be the dealer. They shuffle the deck and deal ten cards, face down, to each player.

The remaining cards become the draw pile. The top card of the draw pile is flipped over to make the discard pile.

During the first hand, players try to complete Phase 1. A phase is a combination of cards, usually composed of sets, runs, cards of the same color, or a combination.

In addition to traditional cards, the deck also contains “Wild” and “Skip” cards. A Wild card can be used in place of a number card, or can be substituted for any color to complete any phase. A Skip card makes your opponent lose a turn.

As the game continues, each player tries to complete the ten phases. You can only advance to the next phase after a phase is complete.

The first person to complete all ten phases wins the game.

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If you enjoy rummy-type card games, Phase 10 is just that, but with a challenging twist. Each phase you need to complete is specific for each hand dealt. Aiming for a different objective for each phase keeps the game interesting.

Suitable for age 7+, 2-10 players. 6.2″ x 1.3″ x 5.2″, 6.4 ounces.

Uno is a number and color matching card game where players try to play all of their own cards and earn points from the other players’ remaining cards.

The dealer shuffles and deals seven Uno cards to each player. The rest of the cards are placed face-down as the draw pile. The top card on the draw pile is flipped over to make the discard pile.

Players take turns trying to match one of their cards with the card that’s on top of the discard pile. You can match by either color or number.

The deck also includes wild cards and action cards like “skip”, “reverse” and “draw two”. The command on an action card is completed by the next player.

If a player doesn’t have a match or they choose not to play any of their cards, they must draw a card from the draw pile. That card can be played or kept, and the game moves to the next player.

The first player to get rid of all of their cards wins the round. Don’t forget to shout UNO! when you’re down to one card!

The winner of a round receives all the other players’ cards and points are added up. The game ends when the first person scores 500 points. 

Like a lot of people, UNO was the first card game I learned to play. And I still enjoy it! The official rules say age 7 or up, but younger kids who are learning their numbers can definitely have fun playing it with older kids and adults. Uno’s a great choice to play when you want to involve the whole family.

Suitable for age 7+, 2-6 players. 3.8″ x 8″ x 0.8″, 8 ounces.

Skip-Bo is a sequencing card game where players try to create stacks of sequentially numbered cards (from low to high) until they have no cards left.

The dealer shuffles and deals cards face down to the players (30 cards each for 2-4 players, and 20 cards each for five or more players).

These cards create a player’s stock pile. Each player turns over the top card from their own stock pile. The top card of the stock pile is always turned face-up.

The rest of the cards are placed face-down to form the draw pile.

The first player begins their turn by taking cards from the draw pile until they have five cards in their hand.

During their turn, a player can choose to play cards from their hand, from the top card of their stock pile, or from one of the top cards of their own discard piles.

Up to four build piles can be created in the middle of the table at the same time. To create a build pile, a player has to start it with a ”1” card.

Players can only play the next highest card on top of any of their build piles. The goal is to get rid of cards by building piles from 1-12 in sequential order. Skip-Bo cards are wild.

When any of the build piles reaches twelve, the pile is set aside.

If a player plays all five cards in their hand, they can continue their turn by taking five new cards from the draw pile.

When a player has played all of the cards they want to play, they discard one of the cards from their hand into one of their four discard piles. Any card can be placed face-up and in any order into these piles.

Play moves to the next player, who draws from the draw pile if they are holding fewer than five cards.

When the draw pile runs out of cards, all of the completed building piles are reshuffled to replenish the draw pile.

The first player to empty all cards from their stock pile is the winner!

Skip-Bo is a fun sequencing card game for young and old alike. The wild cards can really help you win, so use them wisely. If your family likes Uno but is looking for something just a little more challenging, this is the next game you should try!

Exploding Kittens

Suitable for age 7+, 2-5 players. 11.2″ x 16.2″ x 3.8″, 6.4 ounces.

Don’t let the name fool you—no kittens are actually harmed during the game! Exploding Kittens is a highly-strategic, Russian roulette-style game.

Players draw cards until someone draws an exploding kitten, at which point the player explodes. (Not really, we’re pretending, just like the kittens.) A dead player is out of the game, unless they have a defuse card. That card can defuse the kitten using laser pointers, belly rubs, and catnip sandwiches.

All the other cards in the deck are used to move or avoid the exploding kittens.

Sounds crazy? Exploding Kittens is the highest-funded game in the history of Kickstarter! It’s actually the most-backed crowd-funded project ever. Plus, it has over 10,000 stellar Amazon reviews.

Exploding Kittens is a fun and quirky card game for people who are looking for something a little different. The rules are easy to learn, and the whole family will love to play. Plus, the offbeat illustrations on the cards are seriously funny.

There are lots of expansion packs available, so you might want to pick up a compatible hard travel case for up to 400 cards .

Sequence (Travel Edition)

Suitable for age 8+, 2-4 players. 9.5″ x 5.8″ x 2″, 9.6 ounces.

Sequence is a strategic card game where players try to line up a sequence of colored pegs on the playing board.

Players take turns choosing a card from their hand and discarding it face-up. They can then place a peg in the corresponding slot in the board and draw another card.

Jacks make the game exciting—two-eyed Jacks are wild, and one-eyed Jacks can be used to remove a competitor’s peg from the board. But playing a one-eyed Jack will end your turn, so use them wisely!

The winner is the first to get the required number of sequences on the board.

Travel Sequence is a mini-sized version of the game, so it’s great for packing light. It has much of the fun of the original game, with a couple of key changes. Travel Sequence is for 2-4 players, but the regular game can be played by up to 12 players .

The travel version’s gameplay is also much faster. It’s played with one deck of cards (not two), and you only need four pegs of the same color in a row instead of five to make a sequence.

Mille Bornes

Suitable for age 7+, 2, 3, 4 or 6 players. 10″ x 8″ x 8″, 8 ounces.

Mille Bornes, pronounced “meel born” is French for  a thousand milestones,  a reference to the cement distance markers on French roads. It’s a classic auto-racing card game , invented in France in the 1950s.

The players are in an auto race that’s 1000 miles (or kilometers) long, hence the name. For two- or three-player games the goal is 700 miles.

Mille Bornes is played with a special deck of 110 cards. Included are hazard, remedy, safety, and distance cards. Hazards are corrected with a corresponding remedy card. Hazards can also be prevented by using a safety card. The target can be reached by playing the distance cards.

The game begins with the dealer dealing six cards to each player. Play begins to the dealer’s left. Each player draws one card at the beginning of their turn and either plays or discards one card to end their turn.

After drawing a card, a player can play one of four types of cards in their hand:

• Distance Cards:  These cards get you closer to the finish line. You must have a roll card in your pile to place a distance card, unless you have the “right of way” safety card in your pile.
• Hazard Cards:  These cards disrupt an opponent’s movement. Hazards include out of gas, flat tire, stop, and accident.
• Speed Limit Cards:  These cards can be placed onto your opponent’s speed pile to restrict the distance cards that player can use.
• Safety Cards:  There are four safety cards that grant immunity to a hazard. They can be played during a turn or used as a Coup Fourré, which ends your opponent’s turn.

The game continues until the first player reaches 1,000 miles exactly or the final card is played after the draw pile is empty.

Mille Bornes is a great family game that can be played by elementary-aged kids through adults. Be aware that you can play with two, three, four, or six players, but five players won’t work. An average game takes about 25 minutes.

The race is exciting—you can trip up your opponents with accidents, flat tires, slowdowns, and other hazards. But just like in real life, a little bit of safety can prevent catastrophe!

Cover Your Assets

Suitable for age 7+, 2-8 players. 2.2″ x 1.6″ x 0.4″, 9.6 ounces.

Cover Your Assets is a classic strategy card game where you try to make a fortune by collecting matching pairs of asset cards in a stack. But, the set of assets on the top of your stack can be stolen by the other players!

The dealer shuffles and deals four cards face-down to each player (in a two-player game each player gets five cards).

The rest of the cards are placed face-down to form the draw pile, and the top card is flipped over to make the discard pile.

The player to the left of the dealer starts, and play continues clockwise.

During a turn, players can do one of the four things: play a pair of cards, match the top card from the discard pile, steal cards from another player, or discard a card.

Two cards of the same type can be played as a pair. Only one pair can be played during a turn. One silver or gold wild card can be used per pair.

Each pair of cards played is placed in a player’s asset pile, on top of any previous pairs.

If a card matches the top of the discard pile, that pair is added to a player’s assets.

When stealing the top pair of assets from an opponent, A player must already have at least one pair of assets, plus a card that matches the cards they are trying to steal. If the opponent doesn’t have at least two pairs in the pile, their assets can’t be stolen.

Each time a set is stolen its value increases, so other players will be more likely to try to steal it. As the game’s name warns you, the best way to protect a high-value set is to cover those assets with a new set of assets. 

At the end of each player’s turn, they draw cards to return their hand to its original number of cards.

The round ends when the draw pile is empty and the players have played or discarded the cards in their hands. Assets are totaled for the round, and another round begins as long as no player has reached a million dollars total in all rounds.

The first player to reach a million dollars in assets is the winner.

Cover Your Assets is fast-paced and competitive. You can make a fortune, or lose it, in just a few turns. You’ll never really be sure who’s going to win until the last card is played.

If you enjoy the ruthless competition of a good game of Monopoly, this is a much faster game that may just satisfy your need to amass a fortune and take all you can from your family and friends!

Loaded Questions on the Go

Suitable for age 8+, 4-6 players. 3.6″ x 0.8″ x 5.5″, 3.2 ounces.

Loaded Questions poses various questions, challenging rotating players to guess which other player is responsible for each answer.

The question cards are placed face-down in the middle of the table, and each player writes their name at the top of their score sheet. Players take turns picking a card and reading their favorite question aloud. The other players write down their answers on their sheets.

The Reader then collects the sheets, shuffles them, and reads them aloud. The player who read the question then tries to guess which answer belongs to which player.

For each correct guess, that player can fill in one bubble on their score sheet. The first player to fill eight bubbles (for a four-player game) or ten bubbles (when playing with five or six) is the winner.

Loaded Questions on the Go has a mix of serious and silly questions. There are definitely some conversation starters here!

If you already have the original game, you’ll be happy to know that this version has different questions than the original.

Loaded Questions is perfect for cruising with a multi-generation family. It’s a great way to get everyone involved. Plus, you might just learn something new about your family members that you never expected!

Five Crowns Mini Round

Suitable for ages 8+, 2-4 players. 2.1″ x 2.1″ x 1.1″, 0.32 ounces.

Another rummy-style game, Five Crowns Mini Round is a shorter, faster version of the original game.

Five Crowns has a unique double deck with 5 suits: spades, clubs, hearts, diamonds, and stars. This makes it easier to arrange your entire hand into books and runs. Plus, a rotating wild card keeps the game interesting.

Play begins with three cards and threes are wild. The next round has four cards and fours are wild, continuing until the sevens are wild. The first player to go out wins: whoever is able to arrange all their cards into books or runs with only one card remaining.

This miniature version of Five Crowns still has the fun features of the original game. Play lasts just five rounds (the full game has 11), so each game takes 15 minutes or less. It fits in a 2” tin, perfect if you’re packing light for your cruise.

Monopoly Deal

Suitable for age 8+, 2-5 players. 0.8″ x 3.6″ x 5.6″, 0.32 ounces.

Monopoly Deal is a simplified, quick-playing version of the classic property building Monopoly game.

On each turn, players pick up cards and play action cards to steal other players’ cards, charge them rent, or demand money for their birthday.

The dealer gives each player a quick start reference card, shuffles the rest of the cards and deals five to each player.

The remaining cards go face-down in the center of the table for the draw pile.

The first player takes two cards from the draw pile and plays up to three cards in front of them. They can put money or bank cards into their own bank, place property cards into their collection, and/or play an action card into the center.

At the end of each turn, players discard any extra cards in their hand to the bottom of the draw pile to bring them to the maximum of seven cards.

Play moves to the next player. If a player has run out of cards at the start of a turn, they draw five before beginning their turn.

The first player to collect three full property sets of different colors wins the game.

If you love the competitiveness of Monopoly, but don’t want to start a three-hour (or longer!) game, you’ll love Monopoly Deal . Game play lasts just 15-30 minutes!

Plus, the game is super-small. You won’t need to worry about a game board with lots of little pieces, plus piles of cards and paper money filling up a large table—that’s not very practical on a crowded cruise ship.

This game is just as competitive as the original Monopoly, but faster and easier to play on the go.

Suitable for age 8+, 2-6 players. 0.8″ x 3.6″ x 5.6″, 3.2 ounces.

Rook is similar to bridge, with tricks and trumps. But Rook is played with a special 57-card deck containing four suits: red, green, black, and yellow. Cards are numbered from 1 to 14. The Rook card is a high-value card that you can use as an extra trump.

The game comes with both beginner and advanced rules, but basically you and your partner (the game is usually played in pairs, but there are variations for two or three player games) try to score as many points as possible with the cards in your hand.

During each hand, players bid for trump. The team that wins the bid must make at least the amount of points they bid in the hand.

The card that’s led must be followed by a card of the same color. A player may play a trump color if they have none of the right color. The highest card played wins the trick—unless the trick is trumped, and then the highest trump wins. The Rook card can be played at any time, and always wins the trick.

The first team to reach 300 points (or another amount that you choose) is the winner.

If you like whist games like Bridge, you’ll enjoy Rook —the play of each trick is similar. But there’s a twist. The amount of tricks isn’t important, but certain cards (fives, tens, fourteens, and the Rook card) in tricks are worth points, which is how the game is scored.

Rook is a fun game to bring along if you’re traveling with couples, or an even number of card-loving friends!

Suitable for age 8+, 2-5 players. 4.2″ x 5.8″ x 1.5″, 8.5 ounces.

In Sushi GO! the goal is to pick the best combination of sushi dishes. Players can score points for making the most maki rolls or for collecting a full set of sashimi. You can even triple a score by dipping your sushi in wasabi!

The dealer deals a certain number of cards to each player, depending on how many people are playing. The rest of the cards go in a pile face-down in the middle of the table.

At the beginning of each round, all players choose one card from their own hand to keep, and place it face down. Everyone then reveals their chosen cards.

Then the remaining hands are passed to the left for the next turn, where another card is chosen. Play continues until each player is handed a single card, which is kept with the other chosen cards.

When scoring, each type of food item is worth a different amount of points. Some are worth more if a player has collected multiples. The score from each of the three rounds is added together at the end of the game.

After the third round is scored, it’s time for dessert, and the scoring of the pudding cards. The player with the most pudding receives six points, and whoever has the fewest pudding cards loses six points. The player with the most total points wins.

Sushi Go! is a fast-playing card game. Each game only takes about fifteen minutes! The concept and the cards are really cute, but it also helps teach younger players strategic thinking and probability.

If you have a larger group, the larger Sushi Go Party! version of the game can be played by up to eight players.

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza

Suitable for age 8+, 3-8 players. 3.5″ x 2.5″ x 1″, 3.2 ounces.

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is another quirky game that first blew up on Kickstarter. But this game is as unique (much like its name). The game is played with a single deck of 64 cute illustrated cards including a cute taco, cat, goat, piece of cheese and slice of pizza (the smiling narwhal is my fave).

The dealer distributes the cards evenly among the players. The player to the dealer’s left puts a card into the community pile face-up, and says “taco”. The next player to the left then puts their card face-up on top of the pile, then says “cat”.

This continues in order until a player puts down a card that matches the word they call out. Then all players slap a hand on top of the pile as quickly as possible. The last player to slap their hand has to take all of the cards in the pile.

The action cards (gorilla, narwhal, and groundhog) each require players to make a specific funny gesture before slapping the deck.

The winner is the first player to slap the deck after getting rid of all their cards.

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is fun for all ages. It’s a super-competitive party game for families or even a group of adults. Its rules are simple, so it’s easy to learn. But it’s harder than it looks to win!

As simple as it is, the game requires concentration to take the right action at the right time. Your mind will play tricks on you, and you WILL make silly mistakes, so be prepared to laugh a lot!

Suitable for age 9+, 2-3 players. 4.8″ x 3.5″ x 1.5″, 7 ounces.

Cribbage is played with a deck of cards as well as a pegboard and pegs. It’s a two-phase game, with the opportunity to score points during both parts. Cribbage begins with card play, and then players score the points in their hand.

You collect points by combining cards together to make runs, or by scoring combinations.

The object of the game is to advance your pegs around the two tracks, completing the circuits before your opponent. With each point you score, you advance one space. A player needs 121 points to finish and win the game.

For those who aren’t math whizzes, the math in a game of cribbage is simple, but your tactics and strategy are key to winning. Every game is a little different—sometimes you’re focusing on scoring points, but suddenly you’ll be working harder to stop your opponent from scoring.

Texas Hold’Em

Suitable for age 10+, 2-10 players. 11.5″ x 7.4″ x 4.8″, 3.75 pounds.

Texas Hold’Em is a variation of poker, but is very different from the traditional game, with different strategies and methods of winning.

The most obvious difference is the number of cards that are dealt to each player at the beginning of the game. In Texas Hold’Em, each player gets two cards instead of the traditional four. You can then choose whether to use one or both of those cards in combination with the community cards.

After the cards are dealt, you check to see if you have a playable hand. Then each player can either call the blind, raise it, or fold if their cards aren’t playable.

After the first round of betting, three community cards are dealt face up. Another round of betting, then the turn card is dealt.  After the next round of betting, the final community card is dealt face up. Three out of the five community cards can be used by all players to make their poker hand. Then the final round of betting happens, and the player with the best five-card hand wins the pot.

Ships’ casinos sometimes have Texas Hold’Em tournaments, but if you want to play wherever and whenever you want, this portable set is for you. Plus, you can play with friends, and not have to worry about the casino taking their cut!

On a few of my recent cruises, the casino canceled Texas Hold’Em because not enough players had signed up. So if you know you want to play, it’s a good idea to pack your own set.

Suitable for age 10+, 2-8 players. 2.8″ x 6.3″ x 9″, 1.25 pounds.

Codenames is a word game, but with spies! There are two rival spymasters, and only they know the secret identities of 25 agents. Teammates only know the agents’ codenames. Each team competes to be the first to make contact with all of their agents.

Spymasters give their teammates one-word clues, trying to get them to guess words on the table. Players try to guess words of their own team’s color while not guessing the opposing team’s words.

There are other cards in the mix as well: a double agent card, seven innocent bystander cards, and the dreaded assassin card. Avoid the assassin!

Codenames can be played with just two players, essentially two people playing together against the game itself. ( Codenames Duet , a variation on the original, is much more fun for two). A group of four players also works—the non-spymasters will guess words without help from a teammate.

But, Codenames is best played with a group of six or more. So if you’re cruising with a group of family or friends, this is a lively and exciting game of spies vs. spies!

Apples to Apples

Suitable for age 12+, 4-8 players. 6.8″ x 2.8″ x 4.1″, 1 pound.

Apples to Apples is a party game where players try to make the most appropriate, humorous, or even bizarre match between an adjective and several nouns.

Apples to Apples has two types of cards: things and descriptions. Players are dealt seven red things cards, and everyone takes turns being the judge and reading the next green description card. Everyone else tries to pick the thing that best matches the description from the cards in their hand.

If the judge likes your choice the best, you keep the description card. The first player to collect the total amount of description cards specified in the instructions for the size of the group wins.

Apples to Apples is a family-friendly card game that will have everyone laughing. If you like Cards Against Humanity but you want a less-risqué game to play with younger players (or your parents!), then this is the game for you.

Is the judge a bit kooky, or are they literal-minded? The better you know each player, the more likely you are to guess how they’ll pick their favorite combinations. But watch out! Some people will surprise you!

Unstable Unicorns

Suitable for age 14+, 2-8 players. 5.8″ x 4″ x 2″, 12.2 ounces.

Unstable Unicorns is a strategy game where players try to complete a stable of seven unicorns while trying to destroy their opponents’ unicorns. Magic, Instant, Upgrade, and Downgrade cards make sure that the game is exciting and unpredictable.

After setting up a nursery and draw pile, each player gets one baby unicorn card for their stable. The dealer deals five cards to each player. The player wearing the most colorful clothes goes first. Each turn is made up of four phases:

• Beginning of your turn : If any card has an effect that happens “at the beginning of your turn”, use that effect now.
• Draw Phase : Draw one card from the draw pile.
• Action Phase : Play one card from your hand or draw one more card.
• End of your turn : Discard any cards you’re holding over the seven-card limit.

The first player to complete their unicorn army is the winner.

Unstable Unicorns won the 2019 People’s Choice Award for Toy of the Year , and is one of the top 100 most-backed Kickstarter projects of all time.

The game takes only 30-45 minutes to play, and is competitive fun for teens and adults. Slightly younger kids can play as well, if they can handle having their stables destroyed!

Make it even more travel-friendly with a colorful rainbow travel case to continue the unicorn theme.

Cards Against Humanity

Suitable for 17+, 4-20+ players. 7″ x 3.5″ x 4.5″, 2.25 pounds.

Much like Apples to Apples, Cards Against Humanity challenges players to make the best match, but with questions and answers.

As the makers of the game say, Cards Against Humanity is “a party game for horrible people”. That pretty much sums it up, but it’s lots of fun to play.

The rules of Cards Against Humanity are super-simple. The game comes with 100 black question cards and 500 white answer cards.

At the beginning of the game, each player draws ten white cards. One player is chosen as the Card Czar (this job rotates each round) and reads a question out loud from a black card. Everyone else chooses the funniest answer from one of their white cards.

Players answer the question by passing their chosen white card, face down, to the Card Czar.

The Card Czar shuffles all of the answer cards and reads the question with each answer to the group. The Card Czar then picks the funniest result, and whoever submitted it gets one “Awesome Point”.

The rules don’t say how to win the game. Just have fun until you don’t feel like playing anymore, or make up your own rules on how to win!

Cards Against Humanity can be played with small or large groups, and it’s easy to learn. There’s no game board or complicated scoring system to worry about.

However, his game can be pretty vulgar. There are swears. There are “inappropriate” topics. Lots of them. Don’t expect to be able to play this game with kids or anyone who is easily offended. I recommend that if you play this on a cruise, find a spot away from where any children are gathered.

If you already have the game and some expansion packs, bring them along in a compatible travel case.

These Cards Will Get You Drunk

Suitable for adults, 2-8 players. 3.6″ x 2.6″ x 1.2″, 3.2 ounces.

Unsurprisingly, These Cards Will Get You Drunk is a drinking game. It doesn’t have any points or scoring (which is good after a few drinks).

Essentially, players take turns reading the instructions on a card, and following the directions.

Some examples of card instructions are, “Tell a joke. If no one else chuckles or laughs, you drink.” Or, “Everyone wearing a shirt with buttons drinks”.

You can play with whatever drink you choose—alcoholic or not. Keep playing until you run out of cards, or whenever you want to stop.

This game’s easy rules   and fun challenges will have everyone laughing hysterically. It’s great for a cruise with an open bar or when you have an unlimited drink package .

Make some new friends and use the game as an icebreaker! It’s best played with a bunch of people.

Domino and Tile Games

Qwirkle Travel Size

Suitable for age 6+, 2-4 players. 5.5″ x 6″ x 2″, 5.3 ounces.

Qwirkle is a tile game that’s similar to Scrabble and Rummikub, but with shapes and colors instead of letters or numbers.

The travel size version of Qwirkle is played with 108 wooden tiles. The top side of each tile has one of six shapes in one of six colors.

The game is easy to learn: players build lines by matching tiles by color or by shape. A played tile must share the same color or shape as the adjacent tile, and must be placed in the same vertical or horizontal line.

Players each draw six tiles from the bag, and the rest of the tiles remain in the bag.

During each player’s turn, they can do one of two things:

• Add one or more tiles to the grid and take that many tiles from the bag (to again be holding six tiles)
• Trade some or all of their tiles with tiles from the bag.

Players score one point for each tile in a line when creating or adding to that line. If a tile is part of two lines, it will score two points.

When a player completes a line of six tiles, it’s a Qwirkle! Six bonus points are scored.

The first player to use all of their tiles gets a six-point bonus and the game ends. The player with the highest score is the winner.

Even young kids can play Qwirkle , as long as they can recognize shapes and colors (or they’re learning!) It’s still lots of fun for older kids and adults.

The travel version of Qwirkle comes in a zippered bag that’s used to hold tiles during the game. It’s easy to set up and pack up again after each game.

Rummikub on the Go

Suitable for age 8+, 2-4 players. 14″ x 1.8″ x 5.2″, 1.61 pounds.

Rummikub is a rummy-style game played with 106 numbered tiles. The goal of the game is to place all of your tiles on the table as part of a set.

Players begin by scrambling all of the tiles on the table, face-down.

Each player draws fourteen tiles from the table and places them on their rack. On everyone’s first turn, the goal is to make a set of one or more groups or runs that add up to 30 or more points.

Groups are formed when three or four tiles of the same number are played together. Runs are formed when three or more numbers of the same color are put together. Playing a group or a run makes a set.

If a player can’t make at least 30 points on the first turn, they can take a tile from the pool. That tile can’t be played until the next turn, but then they’ll have another chance to get in the game.

In subsequent turns, players try to add tiles to a run or a group.

The first player to get rid of all the tiles on their rack shouts, “Rummikub!” All the other players add up the value of the tiles on their racks, and their scores are written as negative numbers. The winner’s score is the total number of the other players’ tile values.

If you like the original Rummikub game, Rummikub on the Go includes the same full-size racks and tiles, but in a canvas travel bag instead of a bulky box.

Rummikub is a fast-moving game that’s easy to learn. With a combination of luck and strategy needed to win, you never know who will achieve victory until the very end.

Tile Lock Scrabble

Suitable for age 8+, 2-4 players. 10.8″ x 2″ x 11″, 15.5 ounces.

Scrabble is the classic crossword-style game, played with a game board, 100 letter tiles, and a rack for each player that hides their tiles from the other contestants.

The object of the game is to fit high-scoring words onto the grid, connecting with or adding to the other words on the board.

All words played must appear in a dictionary that the players agree on beforehand (make sure you download a Scrabble word checker app that works offline to avoid any arguments!) Words that are never allowed include words that are always capitalized, abbreviations, prefixes and suffixes, and words that contain a hyphen or apostrophe.

Players draw seven letters from the included pouch and arrange them on their rack. The first player’s word can be made horizontally or vertically on the board, just as long as it passes through the center square.

Turns continue, with each player using the tiles from their rack to fit words on the board. Each new word must connect to at least one letter in a word that was already played.

Words are scored based on the value of each letter, plus any bonus points earned from placing a letter on a premium square in the grid.

After each turn, players draw new tiles from the bag, (as long as the bag still contains tiles) to again have seven tiles on their rack.

The game ends when a player uses their last letter, or when no more possible words can be made. The player with the highest score wins.

Scrabble can be played by elementary-age kids through adults, and it’s great for reinforcing spelling and building vocabulary (I like to add to the rules when playing with kids: each player has to define words aloud as they play them).

Tile Lock Scrabble comes with a 10.5” square board, slightly smaller tiles than the original game, and four tile racks.

The tiles don’t actually lock into the board, but each tile sits inside raised nubs that surround each square. If the board gets bumped, the tiles will stay in place.

If you’re a Scrabble nut like me and tiles that aren’t arranged neatly drive you crazy, you’ll love this feature!

Mexican Train

Suitable for age 8+, 2-8 players. 5.5″ x 6.5″ x 2″, 1.75 pounds.

The object of Mexican Train is to be the first player to get rid of all your dominoes. When the first player goes out, the tiles left in the other players’ hands count against them. So be strategic and play your high-numbered tiles.

The game starts by placing the double-12 tile in the center of the hub to make the “engine”. The rest of the dominoes are shuffled face-down on the table to make the “boneyard”.

Players then take the appropriate number of dominoes from the boneyard (as few as eight, but up to twelve depending on how many players) and stand them up so the others can’t see their values.

The first player begins to build a single row of dominoes (a “train”), starting from the center domino and moving toward themself. The end of the domino placed near the engine must match the engine’s number.

When any player can’t start a train on their first turn, they can draw from the boneyard. If they choose the right domino, they can play it immediately. If they don’t pick the domino they need, they place a marker where a domino would have gone. Any player can play a domino on a marker in a future turn.

The round continues until a player has one last domino, which is announced by shouting, “Uno!”. The round finishes when one player has no more tiles to play or no more tiles can be played at all.

To determine the scores, any player with an empty hand scores zero points. The other players add up the total number of dots on the dominoes remaining in their hand. Whoever has the lowest number of points wins the round.

After all rounds are completed, the player with the fewest total points is the game winner.

At just under two pounds, this travel Mexican Train set is not the lightest game on the list. But if you’re not flying (or you’re otherwise a light packer), it’s a fun game to take along on your cruise.

Mexican Train is great for families as well as adults. The cute train markers and colorful dominoes make it more appealing than traditional dominoes for younger players.

This game can become addictive, so you’ll want to play multiple times during your cruise!

Lexicon-Go!

Suitable for age 8+, 2-4 players. 1″ x 1″ x 3.1″, 14.2 ounces.

Lexicon-Go! is a super-fast word game where players race to get rid of their tiles by creating words, swapping letters, and attacking opponents’ words.

To start the game, players shuffle the letter tiles face-down on the table to make the draw pile. Each player draws ten tiles and places them face down in front of them. One player shouts “Lex-Go!” and all players then flip over their tiles. The race is on to get rid of all your letter tiles.

Players can get rid of tiles in several ways:

• Make a word: Place letter tiles on the table face-up in rows.
• Build on another player’s word: Add a letter or letters to another player’s word, changing the word. New letters can be added to the beginning, middle, or end of a word.
• Replace a letter: You can replace a letter from another player’s word, but you must then take the replaced letter tile.
• Swap a tile: You can replace one of your letter tiles for one in the draw pile, but you need to shout “Swap!”. You can only make another swap after another player has swapped out a tile.

When a player has used all of their letter tiles, they shout, “Lexicon!”. If all of their words are valid, they win the round. If any of their words are invalid, they don’t win the round, and play continues.

Players repeat playing rounds until the first player takes five rounds to win the game.

If you love Scrabble but want to try something new (or you don’t have room to pack even a travel-sized game board), Lexicon-Go! is the cruise game for you.

For those familiar with the card game Lexicon, this is a speed version with tiles. The biggest differences are that this game isn’t turn-based, and the letters don’t have specific values. But, you could play the original game with the tiles as well. Just be sure to bring your instructions along.

This game won’t take up much room in your luggage—the cute L-shaped travel bag is small and light for a tile game, weighing in at less than a pound.

Carcassonne Travel Edition

Suitable for age 8+, 2-5 players. 7.9″ x 1.6″ x 7.9″, 14.2 ounces.

Carcassonne is a medieval-themed civilization game that’s played by building a game board with square land tiles that depict various types of terrain and landmarks.

To begin, the start tile is placed in the center of the table, and the scoring track is placed near the edge of the table. All of the other tiles are shuffled and placed face-down in a stack.

Each player takes eight ”follower” pieces of the same color and places one of them on the number zero on the scoreboard.

One player goes first, and turns pass clockwise around the table.

During a turn, players complete the following steps in order:

• Draw one land tile and place it adjacent to an existing tile.
• Place one follower on that tile, if desired.
• Score any completed roads, cities, or cloisters (farms continue to grow, so they are scored at the end of the game).
• Return followers from completed elements in step 3 to the player.

When placing land tiles, players must do so according to some basic rules:

• The new tile must be placed with at least one side joined to the side of an existing tile.
• The side of the new tile that’s joining to an existing tile must match in terrain type (road, field, or city)
• If it’s impossible for a tile to be placed, the player returns the tile and draws another.

When placing followers, players must follow these rules:

• Only place one follower per turn.
• A follower can only be placed on the tile that player just placed.
• The follower must be clearly placed on all or a portion of a road, city, cloister, or field.
• Followers can’t be placed on a terrain feature that’s already claimed by another follower.

When a player has deployed all his followers, he continues to play tiles each turn.

A player is never allowed to retake one of his followers from a tile, although they are returned when roads, cities, or cloisters are finished.

Play continues until all land tiles have been placed. Scoring then is done for all of the farms, as well as for any incomplete terrain types.

The player with the highest score is the winner.

If you like map-based games like Risk or Civilization, you’ll enjoy this one. Game play is only about 30-45 minutes, so you won’t be sucked into a complicated hours-long game on your vacation.

This travel version of Carcassonne plays just like the original, but the components are slightly smaller to make it more travel-friendly.

The cloth carrying sack stores all of the tiles and followers, and has the scoring track printed right on it. The land tiles create the game board, so there’s no extra board to bring along.

If you’re interested in learning to play Carcassonne, I highly recommend this two-part YouTube video that demonstrates how to play for beginners.

Bananagrams Party Edition

Suitable for age 10+, 2-8 players. 22.5″ x 8.5″ x 8.5″, 14.1 ounces.

Bananagrams is a crossword-style word game where players race to make words in their own grids and use up all of their letters.

Players shuffle all the letter tiles face-down on the table to create the ”bunch”. Each player draws the appropriate number of tiles from the bunch, depending on the number of people playing.

After each player draws, the party tiles are added to the bunch. Party tiles have a symbol on them that corresponds to an action.

To start the game, one player yells, “Split!”. All players then turn over their tiles and arrange them to form words in their grid.

A player can discard an unusable letter, but they must then take three tiles in exchange.

If you draw a party tile from the bunch, you have to use it immediately. Some tiles require a single action, but others continue until the end of the hand. When the action has been completed, the party tile is taken out of play.

When someone uses the last of their letters, they shout, “Peel!” and everyone takes another tile from the bunch. If there aren’t enough tiles in the bunch for each player to take one, the player instead shouts, “Bananas!”.

After bananas is called, the other players have the chance to inspect that player’s grid. If it contains any invalid words, like a misspelling or a proper noun, the players shout, “Rotten banana!”. The rotten banana is out of the game and their tiles are added to the bunch.

Play continues until someone else calls “Bananas!” If all of their words are acceptable, they become the ”Top Banana” and win the game.

Bananagrams Party Edition is an exciting alternative to traditional crossword games. With its 14 party tiles including The Re-Gifter, The Thief, Switcheroo, and Pouch Head, you never know what’s going to happen!

Bad spellers beware, though. One misspelled word and you’re out of the game. This is a fun game for word fanatics, from late-elementary age to adult.

Its cute banana-shaped travel pouch makes Bananagrams easy to throw in your luggage, and it weighs less than a pound.

Other types of games to take on a cruise

Connect 4 Grab & Go

Suitable for age 6+, 2 players. 1.9″ x 6.3″ x 9.2″, 7.2 ounces.

Connect 4 is a classic match-four strategy game that’s played on a vertical grid. Players drop colored checkers Into the grid to try to be the first to match four in a row of their color.

Players begin by assembling the board, which has a round base with slots that the grid fits in, so the grid stands upright. Place the grid between the two players.

One player then takes all of the black checkers, and the other takes the red checkers.

Players alternate turns, dropping checkers through any of the seven slots at the top of the grid.

The first player to make a line of four checkers in their color, horizontally, diagonally, or vertically is the winner.

If you like no-frills strategy games like tic-tac-toe, Connect Four is a slightly longer-playing version. It’s an easy game to teach younger kids, and they can develop strategy with practice.

This travel version plays just like the full size, but it’s more compact to easily fit in a bag.

Packing and storing the game is convenient, as all of the checkers can be stored in the grid, and the checker trays fold for portability.

Suitable for age 6+, 1 or more players. 5″ x 11.3″ x 7.6″, 2.15 pounds.

Jenga is a block-stacking game where players try not to be the one who makes the tower topple over.

Players begin by building the Jenga tower. Three blocks are placed side-by-side on the table. Three more blocks are placed on top, with the ends of the blocks facing the opposing direction.

Continue stacking until you’ve used up all of the blocks and you have a rectangular tower.

Players take turns trying to remove a block from the tower without touching any other block. This can be done by carefully pushing or tapping a block from one side, and pulling it out from the stack.

Once a block is removed, it’s placed on top of the tower, using the same pattern used to build the tower. The game continues until the tower falls, or a block falls from the tower that wasn’t removed.

If you’re playing with three or more people, there’s no clear winner, but the loser is the last person to touch the tower before it falls.

Jenga is such a simple game—it’s just wooden blocks! But being really good at it requires a very steady hand, patience and concentration, and a bit of strategy.

Jenga can be played as a solitaire game (just keep trying to build higher towers), one-on-one, or with a group.

Be prepared to have lots of cheering onlookers if you’re building a teetering tower on the Lido deck!

This is the full-sized Jenga game, although Mini Jenga does exist. The mini version is much harder to play because the blocks are smaller and lighter.

Battleship (Travel Size)

Suitable for age 7+, 2 players. 1.9″ x 6.3″ x 9.2″, 6.2 ounces.

Battleship is a two-player naval-themed game where each player tries to guess the location of their opponent’s warships to sink them.

Both players get an upright game board with both horizontal and vertical grids to record shots fired and to hide their own ships.

Along with the game boards, each player takes an assortment of red and white marker pegs and one each of the five ship types (Carrier, Battleship, Cruiser, Submarine, and Destroyer).

Players sit facing one another at a table and position the game boards so players can’t see one another’s grids.

The two players should be positioned so they face each other across a game table. Their target grids back up to one another vertically so that neither player can see his opponent’s ocean grid and ship locations.

Each player starts by positioning their own ships by slotting them into the holes on the lower grid. Ships must be placed horizontally or vertically on the grid. Once the game begins, the ships’ positions can’t be changed.

The players take turns firing shots by calling out coordinates (a letter and number that corresponds with rows and columns on the grid), trying to hit their opponent’s ships.

After a shot is fired, the other player checks their lower grid to see if the coordinates match a spot that is occupied by a ship. They respond “hit” if there is a ship in that location, and “miss” if there isn’t.

When a player’s ship is hit, they place a red peg in the top of that ship. If all of the holes on the top of a ship are filled with a red peg, the ship is sunk, and the player who lost a ship must announce that.

When a player fires a shot, they mark the coordinates they called out on their own upper grid with a white peg for a miss and a red peg for a hit. As the game progresses, each player will have a better idea of the location and size of the other player’s ships.

The first player to sink all of their opponent’s ships is the winner.

The Grab & Go version of Battleship plays just like the original, just with smaller components. The game units hinge closed, and all of the pieces store neatly inside.

It’s a good game to teach younger players strategy, logic, and how to identify coordinates on a grid.

More seasoned players will enjoy playing the game using the Salvo variation ‘s alternative rules where multiple shots are fired in each turn.

Suitable for age 8+, 2 or more players. 7.4″ x 0.8″ x 10.4″, 14.9 ounces.

I couldn’t possibly make a list of games to take on a cruise without including Mad Libs, the quintessential travel game!

If you’ve never played, a Mad Libs book has mini-stories with some of the key words left out. The missing words are replaced by a line, as well as an indication of which part of speech (noun, adjective, etc.) is missing.

The players fill in the words without seeing the text, and create completely hilarious (and often absurd) stories.

Players take turns being the reader, who is the only one to see the story before it’s filled in. The reader calls out the missing parts of speech.

The other players pick any word that comes to mind for the reader to write down, as long as it’s the correct part of speech. The reader then writes the chosen word on the appropriate line.

When the story is filled out, one of the players (it doesn’t have to be the reader) reads the completed story back to the group.

There are no winners or losers in Mad Libs, but I guarantee there will be plenty of laughter!

Although Mad Libs was originally a kids’ game, there are now versions for all ages and reading levels.

It’s a great tool for helping kids learn their parts of speech while having fun. Adults will enjoy how funny an innocuous story can become when random words that they chose are inserted!

Plus, Mad Libs is super-portable, part of the reason why it’s been a favorite travel game for decades.

More posts you’ll love:

• 33 Fun Things to Do on Cruise Sea Days
• Cruising with Kids: 19 Essential Tips

Have you enjoyed any of these games while traveling? Do you have any other favorites that you like to pack for a cruise? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!

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Medha Verma

Monday 16th of December 2019

Wow, you've really put some thought into this! And I like how you've described every game in detail. These games sound like a lot of fun on a cruise but also in a house party, which I have very often. So maybe I can take inspiration from here and organise it in the next house party I host! Uno is a common fav but sometimes we need to get creative and play something different. I like Boggle, I love word games, not so sure if my friends will though, haha.

Thanks, Medha! I agree, these games would also be great to play at a house party. I like to bring out a game when I have guests that don't know anyone else - it gets everyone laughing and really breaks the ice.

Sunday 15th of December 2019

What a great idea! I always had a pack of cards packed and scrabble! Scrabble was our favourite.

I love Scrabble, too! We tend to get very competitive with it :D Thanks for reading!

Friday 13th of December 2019

I have never heard about a lot of these games before. It is completely awesome, thanks for the tip, I think they are good to play not only on a cruise but in multiple occasions.

We play a lot of these games at home, too. Lots of the games I listed are great to take along on car or plane trips, or when you're camping - lack of electricity always makes me want to play a game! :D

Thursday 12th of December 2019

What a cool idea for a post! I love playing board games and can’t wait to try a few on this list :)

Thanks, Claire! Hope you enjoy the games!

Derek Hartman

Wow, such a great round-up of awesome games! Travel size games are so important for any trip. I tend to take L-C-R with me almost everywhere I go. I'm also obsessed with The Bean Game right now but this list is astounding.

I love L-C-R too! Except that my daughter ALWAYS wins (not quite sure how, since it's almost a pure chance game). I'm going to have to try the Bean Game. Glad you liked the list!

Carnival brings back adult activity Royal Caribbean also offers

E ven a family-friendly cruise line has adults-only events: Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer age-18-plus comedy shows and other events where younger passengers are not allowed.

Cruise ships, at least those from Royal Caribbean ( RCL ) and Carnival, are generally all ages. You can bring your kids into most bars with no restrictions. They can't drink alcohol on sailings out of the U.S. since the drinking age on board is 21, but in most cases they can be in bars and even sit at the bar.

Related: Carnival Cruise Line fixes a passenger payment problem

Both cruise lines do offer after-hours dance clubs with age restrictions, and kids under age 18 have a 1 a.m. curfew if they are not with an adult. Still, most activities on Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line ( CCL ) ships are all-ages, and even the adult activities, aside from the comedy shows, aren't all that adult.

There is, however, one notable exception, "The Quest," a risque adult scavenger hunt both cruise lines offered before the Covid pandemic. "The Quest" was slow to return, first due to social distancing and, for a while, because ships were not sailing full.

Royal Caribbean has been offering "The Quest" on most sailings while Carnival passengers have questioned why they weren't seeing the popular late-night event on their sailings. Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald explained why the cruise line has brought back "The Quest" but you may not find it on your cruise.

Carnival Cruise Line offers 'The Quest'         

Heald held his weekly "Coffee with John" livestream on May 9 and he addressed "The Quest."

"Another thing that was a big talking point yesterday was a game show called 'The Quest.' For those of you who don't know what this is, this is a late-night show usually 11 p.m. at night or afterward and it's sort of an adult scavenger hunt. Now, there is a saying that what happens at 'The Quest' stays at 'The Quest' and there were lots of people asking me 'Why have we canceled it?'" he posted.

"So, again, I want to address this. 'The Quest' is still an option and is still being performed on, the event is still being hosted on some of the ships, most of them in fact," he added.

Most, however, is not the same as all and the brand ambassador explained the scenario where interactive show would not be offered.

"We do give the cruise directors the opportunity not to host it. And the reason not to host it as 'A, they don't feel comfortable doing so' and speaking to some of them, they have decided not to host it based on the number of large, well I shouldn't say large, based on the negative comments from people who were in attendance and complained about the event," he said.

Heald did offer a warning about the show.

ALSO READ: Carnival Cruise Line brand returns to home port after 10 years

"Now, it is very adult-orientated. I'm not going to say any more than that. You will most likely see it on your ship, but if you do not it is not because we've canceled it, but it is because the cruise director has decided that he or she does not feel comfortable in performing and hosting that," he added.

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"Instead they will have other late-night activities options and they include late-night comedy which we move to the big theater or the 'Family Feud Live: After Hours Edition' which is also a little spicy," Heald said.          

Carnival wants you to keep your clothes on

While "The Quest" has returned, Carnival will not be bringing back another adult option it once offered.

"I received a follow-up from “M” who asked “ why the Serenity Deck cannot be made a clothing-optional area?” he said. "So let me say straight away that like smoking, we cannot and will not be allowing this. However, maybe some context may help them with that answer."

Topless decks, he shared, did once exist.

"Where once we had topless decks in the 90s on ships like the Holiday, Celebration, and Jubilee, today nudity is now a massive no-no, unless it’s a specific full ship charter," he posted.

That's not just a Carnival change, it's also a cultural one that extends beyond the U.S. 

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"And it’s not just the ships that are this way. If you go to the beaches of Saint Tropez, Sardinia, and Cleveland, Ohio this summer, you’ll see very few topless female sun worshippers. Yes, there are still beaches where you can lie on the sand in the nude, but these are mainly for people who are comfortable in their own skin," he added.

Related: Carnival has an adult beverage rule passengers may not know

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19 Shocking Cruise Ship Secrets And Tips I Learned After Going On Seven Cruises

Booking a cruise is just like buying a car, meaning you can negotiate the price and get bonus perks, so ~never~ pay the price you see online.

BuzzFeed Staff

Hey! I'm Spencer , and I just got back from my seventh cruise. I've seen and learned a lot of really cool behind-the-scenes secrets while traveling the world on these ships, so I wanted to share some of the most interesting ones with you here, including some tips that may be helpful for your own future adventures. Enjoy!

For context, I've traveled on four different cruise lines: Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America, and now Carnival. My most recent trip was a seven-day sail aboard Carnival Firenze, which traveled throughout Mexico. This was my first time on Carnival, and I somehow managed to get a private tour to areas of the ship that even the most elite VIP passengers will never, ever see. Here are some things I learned along the way.

1. First of all, yes, most cruise ships have both a jail and a morgue on board. These were the only areas of the ship where I wasn't allowed to visit (trust me, I asked multiple times) because they're strictly off limits unless you find them the old-fashioned way...by getting arrested or dying. I didn't want to take those chances, but I did find out that shorter cruises tend to see a LOT more action in the jails (aka "the brig"). Guests typically treat shorter sailings as more of a party by taking advantage of unlimited drink packages, and more alcohol = more fights on board, so needing a jail totally makes sense.

In terms of the morgues, those are usually located on one of the ship's lowest decks. Think of these as giant refrigerators that, depending on the ship's size, can house anywhere from a couple to nearly a dozen bodies. The majority of these deaths are obviously of natural causes – for reference, as of 2018, fewer than  25%  of global passengers were under the age of 30 – but the average age of a cruise ship passenger is getting younger and younger every year now.

2. The higher you are on a ship, the more movement you'll feel, so if you're someone who tends to get motion sickness then you should definitely book your room on the lowest floor possible (just not in the morgue). I've personally never had an issue with motion sickness on a cruise, but I'll occasionally see passengers with at-sea patches behind their ears for help. Contrary to what you might think, though, you'll probably get the best night's sleep of your life on a cruise. Yes, there's a ~very~ slight rocking, but it'll feel sort of like you're a baby again who's being lulled to sleep in a cradle. Just trust me on this one.

This is a photo of what my cabin looked like. I also included a picture of my bathroom, which was a little bigger than I thought it'd be. The shower itself was a pretty decent size and left me with room to spare (if you want a point of reference, I'm 5'11" [a real 5'11", not a Tinder 5'11"]).

I was in a balcony room on Deck 6, and, again, I had no issues with motion sickness. I've also sailed on higher deck levels before (up to Deck 9) and didn't have any issues then either. In terms of where on each deck you should book your cabin (i.e. midship, aft, or forward), that doesn’t actually matter because you won’t really feel the motion differently in other spots on the same deck.

3. But I promise that you probably won't even have to worry about getting seasick. I got a private tour of the ship's control room, and I learned that they do a lottttt to combat any movement from the waves. For example, ships try to hit waves at a 45-degree angle because that's apparently the most effective way to help break them up and cut down on the extra motion. Ships also have stabilizers that can extend outwardly (picture, like, wings on an airplane), which help to keep things super, super stable.

Think of these stabilizers like fins on a fish, so they help each ship glide along the water. I spoke with the captain and some of the engineers in the control room, and they explained that the stabilizers require extra fuel and also decrease the speed of the ship, so they tend to not use them unless the water is pretty rocky.

4. Before you book a cruise, you should know that they're sort of like buying a car: you can negotiate! Basically, the price you see online should almost never be the price you pay (though they often offer great discounts that you should absolutely check out!). Instead, it's best to call and book your trip with an actual person (i.e. someone who works for the cruise line, a travel agent, etc.). For example, travel agents are usually free, and they can get you a ton of bonus perks and huge discounts on rooms for a fraction of the original price.

A lot of cruise lines occasionally offer "buy one, get one" discounts, as well as a ton of other sales around specific holidays. There are also a bunch of sites where you can book discounted sailings to fill the leftover rooms that haven't sold, so just do a little research. Also, places like BJ's and Sam's Club offer trip discounts if you have a membership card to their stores, so take advantage! I booked a previous cruise through one of them a few years back and got a massive discount for my room, onboard credit, and free gratuities. It pays to save!

5. And if you ever want a "free" cruise then you should definitely hit up the casinos on board. It's super common to get extra perks on future sailings (like free Wi-Fi, drink packages, or even entire trips altogether) if you're someone who gambles a lot. Basically, each bet is tied to your personal cruise card (i.e. your room key) every time you play the slots or put money down at a table game. Your total winnings are tracked on that card, and you'll earn points based on the amount you spend. The more you gamble, the more likely you are to get offered those extra perks.

I'm always mesmerized by cruise casinos because they literally created their own mini Las Vegas on board. Like, there are pit bosses and thousands of tiny security cameras and everything else that a real casino would have. The only downside is that these casinos are obviously much smaller than what you'd find in Vegas, so they probably won't have every table game you're looking for. Yes, they have roulette (my favorite) and craps and half a dozen variations of poker, but I still haven't found a pai gow table on board. Maybe next time!

6. The cool thing about cruises – especially for people who are ages 18 through 20 – is that they can sort of make their own laws while at sea. This is known as Maritime Law. For example, gambling at the casino is only allowed once the ship is at least 12 miles from land, but that also means they can lower the age limit from 21 to 18 while in international waters. The legal drinking age on most cruise ships is also 18, not 21.

There were actually two separate casinos on my recent Carnival ship. The larger area allowed smoking and had hundreds of slot machines, a ton of table games, and "adult" claw machines that replaced stuffed animals for huge wads of cash. The other casino, though, was the designated non-smoking area, and even though it was much smaller it still got the job done.

I'm still surprised that people are allowed to smoke in the main casino (there was also a cigar room on board but on a different deck), but, hey, I guess that's Vegas, baby.

7. There are themed cruises for pretty much anything you could ever imagine – for example, Royal Caribbean offers an immersive Star Trek cruise , and Norwegian is even offering a 2,300-person nude cruise next year – but on "regular" cruises there are certain SFW guidelines that guests (and staff!) need to adhere to. For instance, it's forbidden for staff to hook up with guests on board. Doing so would result in a pretty quick termination of their employment contract. Also, there are thousandsssss of security cameras on board, so, like, good luck trying to get away with it.

Years ago I befriended one of the gym trainers on a cruise, and he revealed that he actually managed to hook up with a guest on board. Because there are so many security cameras, it would have been impossible for either of them to visit the other person's cabin without getting caught, so he told me they hooked up in a random towel closet. I guess this is why a lot of cruise ship employees end up dating each other instead of the guests, because it's way less risky and a lot more convenient.

8. Speaking of hooking up on board, there was so much "swinging" happening between couples that a lot of cruise lines had to create training programs for the staff. Basically, decorating cabin doors is a pretty common thing for elite cruisers (as pictured below), and the secret symbol for swingers is an upside-down pineapple. As a result, a lot of couples would decorate their doors with upside-down pineapples to let other guests know that they're open for fun. According to the high-up staff member I talked to, employees on their previous ship were instructed to report any pineapple decorations found on board.

That staff member also told me that this whole issue started because some couples would leave their cabin doors ajar as an invitation for other swingers. However, the housekeeping staff (who are truly, truly incredible!) unknowingly entered while the couples were ~doing the deed~. Employees on cruises typically come from all over the world (on my Carnival ship, they had staff from over 100 different nations), which means they also have certain religious backgrounds. Spotting and removing these pineapple decorations was done in an effort to protect the staff and their religious beliefs.

9. You have to remember that these ships are basically floating cities, so they have everything you could ever want. Like, I've been on ships with a freaking ice skating rink before, and my recent Carnival sailing had an 18-hole mini golf course on the top deck. Also, itineraries are left outside each guest's stateroom every morning, and they list alllll the activities you can do (or not do!) that day. Want to try your luck at bingo? Have at it. Always wanted to go to an art auction? They've got those too. Want to prove your sports, movie, history, Harry Potter , Friends , or just general knowledge at dozens of trivia events? Be their guest! I promise that you'll never be bored on a cruise.

Cruises even have LGBTQ+ mixers, silent disco parties, wine tastings, and cooking classes. There are also discreet meetings for those who are sober or in recovery. For example, Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are labeled as "Friends of Bill" events on each ship's itinerary (this is a nod to Bill Wilson, who co-founded AA).

10. Keep in mind that items on cruise ships are definitely more expensive than what you'd normally pay on land. The spa and salon on my last sailing, for example, charged $175 for a 75-minute Swedish massage and $99 for a "red carpet blowout." If that's somehow in your budget then have at it, but if you want heavily discounted prices then you should book those treatments on days when the ship is at port – this is when most passengers will be off the vessel, so a lot of cruise lines offer discounted treatments to help fill up those time slots and prevent people from hitting up the spas on land. Again, though, you can typically negotiate for certain spa perks when booking!

Every cruise I've been on has had a full-fledged shopping mall on board. There are dozens of stores that sell everything from designer goods to any type of candy or snack you could want. Again, these prices are pretty steep, so if you forget to bring sunscreen then it's probably best to just wait until you get to the next port. Even so, there are definitely ways to save money while cruising! 

11. The more you cruise with a specific line, the more perks you'll get (like free room upgrades, priority access, unlimited internet, and on-board casino credit). These loyalty programs are based on the number of days you sail with each line, so, for example, everyone on their first Carnival cruise is in the Blue tier, then they reach Red status on their second sailing, and once they hit 25 days on board they'll reach the Gold tier. Platinum is achieved after 75 total days of sailing, and Diamond status is for people who've sailed for at least 200 days. I met so many Diamond members that my jaw kind of dropped – like, these people LOVE cruises and go on several a year. It isn't just a vacation for them; it's a full-on hobby.

While doing some research, I also found out that Royal Caribbean even has a "Pinnacle Club" for people who've sailed for over 700 days on their ships, which, holy crap??? So if you're prepared to spend the equivalent of two years on a ship (which kind of sounds like a dream to me, to be honest), then get ready for the ultimate form of perks and luxury.

12. Another way to save money is by booking your shore excursions through third-party vendors. Booking through the ship is definitely the most expensive route, but it's also the safest because you'll never have to worry about the ship leaving without you. Ships have strict docking schedules to follow on port days, so they ~will~ leave without you if you aren't back in time. Otherwise, you're in charge of making it to the next port of call on your own, so good luck. If you have a short port day and are only docked for a few hours then I'd suggest booking through the ship so you don't risk getting left behind.

Cruise lines display all excursion reviews from past passengers on their site, so this can be such a helpful resource to prevent you from booking something that sounds good on paper but is underwhelming in reality (been there, done that). I typically book excursions through vendors who are waiting outside as soon as everyone gets off the ship, but I do a lot of research ahead of time and will often find things to do that aren't even offered by the cruise.

You obviously don't have to go on any excursions at all either. There have been plenty of times when I've simply explored on my own by walking around, grabbing a bite from a local spot, or relaxing at the beach. You also don't even have to leave the ship if you don't want to. In fact, port days are incredible for peak relaxation on board because it's way more quiet, and you'll never struggle to find an open lounger by the pool. Free is my favorite number, so remember that there will always be plenty to do no matter your budget.

13. You should know that there are some banned items you simply can't bring on a cruise. Before boarding, you'll quickly go through security, sort of like a relaxed version of TSA at the airport. The whole process typically only takes a few minutes. Depending on the cruise line, you're usually allowed to bring up to 12 cans of non-alcoholic beverages (my friend brought a six-pack of ginger ale in case she felt seasick, and those made it through just fine. I also saw a bunch of Diet Coke-obsessed people with whole cases, and those made it through too). Candles, hot plates, and the obvious knives, guns, fireworks, etc. are all banned as well.

Bottled water isn't typically allowed through security when checking in, but you can absolutely buy it on board. More importantly, though, there will be plenty of free fill-up stations for your water bottle throughout the ship, so that's an easy fix. I can't stress enough how necessary having a water bottle is, so make sure you bring one (both for your regular onboard living but also for when you leave the ship on port days).

14. Also, don't even try to sneak alcohol on board because you'll definitely get caught. Each ship is different, but for the most part you're only allowed one unopened bottle of wine or champagne in your carry-on. If you buy spirits while at port then you'll have to check them when you get back on the ship, and they'll be returned when you disembark. After all, most cruises only become profitable after adding up their total alcohol sales and casino winnings (I guess it helps that Carnival's 27 ships, for example, sell over 14,000 margaritas each day). For reference, a standard cocktail on my last trip was about $13, and the unlimited drink packages were about $60 a day.

Depending on the cruise line, these unlimited drink packages can range from $55 to over $100 each day. These include specialty coffees, soda, beer, wine, cocktails, and the works. Remember, some people treat cruises like parties (my last sailing had FIVE different types of espresso martinis at the bars, so, like, I sort of don't blame them), and they certainly try to get the most bang for their buck. I've done the math, and you need to have at least five specialty drinks per day to make the unlimited package "worth it."

Non-alcoholic drink packages also exist, like a $9.50-a-day pass that'll get you unlimited sodas. But there are free drinks on board, whether you're at the buffet or sit-down dining, like tap water, brewed coffee, hot teas, hot chocolate, lemonade, iced tea, fruit juices (fresh-pressed ones will cost extra), and milk.

15. Cruise ships obviously make tons (and I mean that literally, not figuratively) of food every single sailing. After all, the average ship holds about 3,000 guests and 1,000 crew members. An employee who I spoke with said Carnival serves about 30,000 burgers every single day, and they'll make over 1.3 million pounds of French fries each year. There are free sit-down restaurants and buffets on board, but there are also specialty dining options that guests can pay for, like hibachi and steak houses. My family always sticks with the free dining options, and I think non-cruisers will be shocked by how good the food actually is, but the best part is that you can order several appetizers, entrées, and desserts per person, so, like, you'll never leave hungry.

All of that food used to mean there's a lot of food waste, but that's not really the case anymore. In fact, a lot of ships are working on how to become more and more sustainable and environmentally friendly. For example, rather than dumping food waste in the water, I saw on my private tour that Carnival has a "food digester" room. Basically, it's a massive machine filled with bacteria that'll break down all the food scraps, just like how your own body breaks down food. Yes, it smelled just as bad as you probably think it would.

Similarly, some ships are even using artificial intelligence to make their sailings more environmentally friendly. While in the control room, one of the engineers told me about how their ship is using new AI that basically studies each sailing so it can recommend new ways to make future voyages as efficient as possible, like by creating energy-saving routes and so on.

16. If you're worried about potentially having bad weather on your cruise then, well, think again. Yes, there's obviously a lot to do inside, but a lot of ships also have retractable roofs on their top decks. So, if it's ever too cold, rainy, or windy then they can usually cover the entire lido deck (i.e. where most of the pools, jacuzzis, and lounge chairs are), which means you can relax "outside" even in the terrible weather. A lot of ships also offer indoor pools and adults-only sections, so, like, you'll totally be set no matter what.

My recent cruise had a regular pool and jacuzzi setup on the lido deck, but there was also another section at the back of the ship with one more pool and two more jacuzzis. There was even a "Serenity" section at the top deck, which served as an "adults-only retreat," meaning passengers younger than 18 weren't allowed. That area unfortunately filled up super fast on sailing days, so if you ever go on a ship with one I'd definitely recommend getting there early.

A lot of ships also offer private areas and decks that are exclusive to only those who book certain rooms. This secluded area was much quieter, super luxurious, and actually felt like I was on a totally different ship. If you're booking a cruise and see that there's an exclusive area, you should absolutely ask about how to get access ahead of time.

17. It's tradition for every ship to have a celebrity godmother or godfather who christens the boat before the inaugural launch, and those celebs are typically rewarded with free cruises for life (!) on that specific vessel. For example, Oprah Winfrey is the godmother of a Holland America ship, and even Audrey Hepburn was the godmother of a Princess ship. Carnival only has two godfathers, and they're fittingly both for their Italian-themed cruises: Jay Leno and now Jonathan Bennett. Christening the ship used to entail smashing a bottle of champagne against its hull, but the night before my cruise I got to watch Jonathan Bennett pour a bottle of champagne over the ship's bell to toast its safe travels instead.

Judi Dench is also the godmother of a ship, and it famously took her three different attempts to break the bottle of champagne against its hull, which then sprayed all over her. That was in 2002, so I think switching to this new christening method with the ship's bell is definitely less messy.

18. One of the most unique parts about cruising is that you'll typically find a cool towel animal waiting for you after returning to your cabin every night. The housekeeping staff are all trained in towel folding, so after dinner you'll have a new animal sitting on your bed or, in my case, hanging from the ceiling. A lot of ships even host towel-folding classes during sailings so guests can learn how to make the animals themselves, and how-to books are also available in the bookstore. I found out that Carnival's housekeeping team makes about 15 million towel animals every single year, which, holy crap.

One morning while on my way to the gym, I walked through the lido deck and saw hundreds of towel animals sitting on every single lounge chair outside. There were monkeys and elephants and dogs, but the most impressive towel animal that I saw was an octopus. I still have no idea how they managed to pull this off, and I'm genuinely so impressed.

19. And finally, the most important thing you should know about cruises is that there are several self-serve ice cream machines on board, and they're all completely free (and unlike McDonald's, these machines are always working!). If you're like me and deserve a sweet treat after dinner – or, let's face it, after or even before breakfast – then you understand how big this is. After all, you're on vacation, so you should be eating as much ice cream and frozen yogurt as you can get your hands on.

I worked at Dairy Queen for a few summers as a teen and genuinely loved it there, so having the ability to serve myself a cone whenever I wanted made me feel at home. And if you're more of a gelato person then I totally understand! Luckily for you, cruises have got you covered. My ship had a freaking gelato spot on board, and they expect to serve about 750,000 scoops this year, but I have a feeling half of them were because of me.

That's it! If you have any other cruise travel tips that have worked for you, please feel free to share them in the comments. Thanks!

Note: BuzzFeed was granted this cruise aboard Carnival Firenze for free, though we were under no obligation to provide a positive review.

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